For beginners, 'Scott Pilgrim' by Bryan Lee O'Malley is a fun choice. It has a modern, relatable story about a young man dealing with love and his own insecurities, all while set in a world full of video - game - like elements. Also, 'The Walking Dead' by Robert Kirkman (although it became very well - known later) started as a self - published graphic novel. It's a great introduction to the horror and survival genre in graphic novel form.
I'd recommend 'Mouse Guard' by David Petersen. The art is detailed and beautiful, and the story of the mice warriors is both exciting and easy to understand. It's a great example of how self - published graphic novels can have high - quality storytelling. And 'Nimona' by Noelle Stevenson is also a good one for beginners. It has a strong - willed main character and a story that mixes fantasy and humor.