There have been many highly acclaimed novels that have been adapted into a graphic novel form. It is a great way to read books that a reader may be on the fence about reading or even just re-reading a favourite book or series. These are my top 5 graphic novels that were originally novels:

5. Twilight by Stephenie Meyer & Illustrated by Young Kim:
A faithful adaptation of the New York Times best selling novel, We follow the story of Isabella Swan (Bella) who moves in with her father in the rainy town of Forks where she meets a strange group of students at her new high school but one of them in particular catches her eye, Edward Cullen.
A captivating story accompanied by incredible black and white illustrations with accents of colour for detail, Young Kim uses a manga art style to depict the dreary atmosphere and emotions of each character throughout the book. A fantastic series about love, sacrifice and the prospect of forever, this graphic novel is great for fans of teenage love and paranormal tales.

4. Vampire Academy by Richelle Mead & Illustrated by Emma Vieceli:
In this coloured graphic novel we follow the story of Lissa (a vampire princess) and Rose (a half vampire, half human). After escaping the academy two year prior, the pair are finally caught and returned to the academy only to find that maybe they were safer in the human world. A great series about passion, strength, loyalty and the special bonds of friendship as well as being accompanied by simple illustrations to depict the school and the characters, it is perfect for fans of the original series and vampire fanatics.
Available as eBook only.

3. Clockwork Angel By Cassandra Clare & Illustrated by HyeKyung Baek:
This first instalment in the Infernal Devices series follows the story of Tessa Gray who enters the world of supernatural creatures after being abducted on her journey to London to meet with her brother. As she moves into her new life, she learns there is more to her own identity than she thought was even possible.
A fantastic first book in this magical trilogy, filled with an amazing cast of characters with some that the reader will love to hate. HyeKyung Baek uses a manga art style and complete use of black and white tones to create the unique appearances of each character. These detailed illustrations also present the emotions of the characters as well as create the dark atmosphere of the world. An action packed tale about loyalty, strength, trust and finding one’s true identity; a perfect series for fans of paranormal stories with all types of supernatural beings and a must read for fans of Cassandra Clare.

2. Noughts and Crosses By Malorie Blackman & Illustrated by John Aggs:
This captivating graphic novel takes place in an alternate history where the “Crosses” (those of darker skin) are the higher class with the power and the “Noughts” (those of lighter skin) are the lower class and are the labour workers. The story follows two teenage friends; Callum who is a nought and Sephy who is a cross. As they both grow older, their friendship is put to the test as the noughts fight against the crosses for equal rights but after an explosion in the shopping mall things become much more complicated. With simple black and white illustrations, John Aggs is able to distinguish the two sides of this town and also project the intensity of the plot with no colour and just fine shading. A heart wrenching and emotional tale of friendship, family, love and overcoming boundaries; This graphic novel will leave you wanting more from this series and wondering what will happen next in this world.

1. Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children by Ransom Riggs & Illustrated by Cassandra Jean:
In this beautifully designed graphic novel, We follow the main character, Jacob. After his grandfather mysteriously passes away, Jacob is on a mission to find out what happened to him, who were these people he kept talking about and also to fulfil his dying wish. A fantastic story about an ordinary boy who discovers there is actually more to the world than meets the eye. With the use of coloured pages as well as black and white pages, Cassandra Jean is able to create a beautiful setting that helps establish the emotions that are trying to be portrayed in each location that Jacob visits. Filled with quirky characters and a captivating storyline, this graphic novel will keep the reader immersed in Jacob’s world until the final page.