Hilda and the Stone Forest is a rare gem in the graphic novel world. It manages to be high-stakes and magical without losing its grounded, emotional center.

If your kid is into adventure but you’re tired of 'brain rot' content that lacks substance, this is the antidote. It’s smart, it’s beautiful, and it actually has something to say about the friction of growing up.

It’s also the book that leads directly into the 'Hilda' Netflix series, which is one of the few adaptations that actually lives up to the source material. Start with the book, then watch the show.