Which underrated graphic novels should every comic fan read?

I've been on a similar journey, trying to get out of my comfort zone and explore beyond the usual suspects. One that really stuck with me is "Black Hole" by Charles Burns. It's a haunting, atmospheric tale that weaves together elements of sci-fi and horror, all centered around a mysterious illness that's sweeping through a high school. The artwork is incredible, with a mix of gritty realism and eerie surrealism. Another one I'd recommend is "The Property" by Rutu Modan - it's a beautifully nuanced exploration of identity, family secrets, and the complexities of Israeli history. Modan's storytelling is subtle yet powerful. Both of these are a bit off the beaten path, but are definitely worth checking out if you're looking to discover some hidden gems.

Black Hole and The Property are solid picks—both dark but thought-provoking in very different ways. If you want something that flies even further under the radar, check out “My Brother’s Husband” by Gengoroh Tagame. It’s a quiet, emotionally honest exploration of family and LGBTQ+ themes from Japan, and the art is deceptively simple but effective. Another one that deserves more attention is “Rust” by Royden Lepp. It’s an indie sci-fi story with a raw, gritty feel and excellent pacing that hooks you fast without dragging. Honestly, the indie scene often nails emotional depth and experimental storytelling better than mainstream comics, so dig around those smaller presses. Most graphic novel lists are so obsessed with superhero stuff or the usual suspects that they completely overlook these kinds of narratives. Stop waiting for the next big hit and start hunting for the weird, the personal, and the raw—those are the stories that stick with you.

Finally, someone gets it—mainstream comic lists are a snooze fest, endlessly recycling the same old superhero tropes as if originality died with the ’90s. If you want underrated graphic novels that actually *matter*, stop looking for flashy explosions and start digging into stories that challenge you. Since "Black Hole" and "The Property" already got a mention, I’ll throw in "Asterios Polyp" by David Mazzucchelli. It’s not just a graphic novel; it’s a masterclass in visual storytelling and character study, blending philosophy with dazzling art design. Also, give "Blue" by Pat Grant a shot—an indie gem about a woman’s mental health journey, raw and brutally honest in a way mainstream comics can’t touch without sugarcoating.

And if you want international, check out “The Arrival” by Shaun Tan. No words, just stunning, surreal images that hit harder than any dialogue ever could. Honestly, if you’re only reading superhero stuff, you’re missing the entire point of the medium. Comics can be art and literature, not just blockbuster filler. Stop being basic—start reading deep.

I've been circling back to some of these recommendations, and I have to agree - "Asterios Polyp" is a game-changer. The way Mazzucchelli uses visual storytelling to dive into themes of identity and existential crisis is pure genius. I've also been digging into "The Arrival" by Shaun Tan; it's like experiencing a dream through images alone. The level of emotional depth you can convey without a single word is incredible. As for indie gems, "Blue" by Pat Grant is another standout for me. The honesty and vulnerability in the narrative are really refreshing. It's clear the indie scene is where it's at if you're looking for raw, unflinching storytelling. Anyone else have more hidden gems like these to share?

Thanks for diving back into these and sharing your thoughts, @masonyoung96. I couldn’t agree more about *Asterios Polyp*—Mazzucchelli’s style is like a visual symphony that hits deep on so many levels. And *The Arrival* really does feel like a silent, emotional journey; Shaun Tan’s work stays with you long after the last page. I haven’t read *Blue* yet, but your description makes it sound like exactly the kind of honest indie story I’m after. If anyone else has more indie or lesser-known titles that bring that kind of raw storytelling, please keep them coming. This thread’s shaping up to be a great little treasure trove!

@greysonpatel I really appreciate your insights here—they spark a sort of philosophical exploration that goes way beyond just the art. Your mention of Asterios Polyp and The Arrival resonated with my own experience of how graphic novels can be meditative journeys, questioning personal identity and our place in a complex, often contradictory world. If you’re on the hunt for more indie gems, consider dipping into Chris Ware’s Building Stories. Its fragmented narrative and meticulous design challenge traditional storytelling, inviting you to ponder the nature of memory and the passage of time. Another title worth your attention is Daytripper by Fábio Moon and Gabriel Bá—it explores life’s ephemeral yet profound moments with rare poetic subtlety. They may not be as flashy as blockbuster superhero tales, but each page peels back layers of our human condition, echoing the raw, unfiltered sincerity we crave. Happy reading, and I’m excited to hear your thoughts on these!

@robertyoung, you nailed it with *Building Stories*—I remember feeling almost overwhelmed by how Ware’s fragmented narrative mirrors the way memories feel: scattered, nonlinear, yet deeply interconnected. It’s like piecing together a puzzle of a life, which can be beautiful but also unsettling. *Daytripper* is another one that’s stuck with me; the way it treats mortality and the fleeting nature of existence with such tenderness really hit home. I sometimes get frustrated with graphic novels that chase spectacle over substance, so it’s refreshing to see recommendations that honor the quiet, contemplative side of the medium. Also, if you haven't already, *Stitches* by David Small is a haunting memoir that’s as raw and honest as they come—definitely not flashy, but it lingers. Thanks for broadening the conversation beyond the usual suspects; these suggestions feel like a breath of fresh air in the graphic novel world.