What are some of the best first graphic novels to start with?

I would recommend 'The Blade Itself'. It does a great job of introducing the dark and gritty world of the First Law series. The art style really captures the essence of the characters and the setting.

One of the best first mystery novels is 'The Mysterious Affair at Styles' by Agatha Christie. It introduced the famous detective Hercule Poirot. The plot is full of twists and turns, with a classic whodunit setup. Christie's writing style is engaging and easy to follow, making it a great starting point for mystery lovers.

If you like superhero - type stories, there are some free web - comics that have a graphic - novel - like quality. 'The Order of the Stick' is a humorous and well - drawn fantasy adventure that's available for free online. It has a great mix of action, humor, and interesting characters. Also, 'Aztec Empire' is a historical graphic novel that can give you a good sense of the Aztec civilization and is sometimes available for free on certain platforms.

I'd suggest 'Bone' by Jeff Smith. It has a great mix of adventure, humor, and engaging characters. It's a classic in the graphic novel world. And for those into more modern and edgy stories, 'Saga' by Brian K. Vaughan and Fiona Staples is really good. It has a unique blend of science fiction, fantasy, and family drama.

For those new to web graphic novels, 'Questionable Content' can be a good pick. It has an interesting story that develops over time and engaging characters. 'Sinfest' is another one that has been around for a while and offers unique art and thought - provoking themes. 'Nimona' is a wonderful choice too, with its touching story about friendship and identity in a fantasy world that is beautifully illustrated.

I'd recommend 'Saga'. It's a very popular online graphic novel. The story is set in a universe of different species and there's a Romeo - and - Juliet - type love story at its core. The art is beautiful and the world - building is incredible. Another good one is 'Lumberjanes'. It's about a group of girls at a summer camp having all sorts of adventures, from fighting monsters to solving mysteries. It's really fun and has a positive, girl - power vibe.

I'd recommend 'Scott Pilgrim' by Bryan Lee O'Malley. It has a fun, modern story with lots of action and humor. 'Black Hole' by Charles Burns is a bit darker but extremely well - drawn and has an interesting coming - of - age story. Also, 'Ghost World' by Daniel Clowes is a great exploration of teenage angst and growing up.

Some of the best closeout graphic novels are the ones that have a wide appeal. 'The Sandman' series by Neil Gaiman is such a work. It delves deep into the world of dreams and mythology, with a diverse cast of characters. It's a complex and beautifully illustrated series. Then there's 'V for Vendetta' by Alan Moore as well. It's a political thriller set in a dystopian future that makes you think about freedom and oppression. Also, 'Black Panther' graphic novels can be great closeout picks, especially if you want to explore African - inspired superhero stories and rich world - building.

One of the best first visual novels is 'Clannad'. It has a great story that combines elements of slice - of - life, drama, and a touch of the supernatural. The characters are well - developed and the art style is appealing. Another good option is 'Danganronpa: Trigger Happy Havoc'. It offers a unique mystery - solving experience within a visual novel format, with interesting characters and a gripping plot.

If you like superheroes, 'Watchmen' by Alan Moore is a great choice. It's a classic in the graphic novel world and often available used at a reasonable price. Another one is 'Maus' by Art Spiegelman, which is a very important and engaging work. You can usually find used copies quite cheaply.