Cover In the worlds of these graphic novels, cities, storms and forests shape the story (Photo: As I Dream of You/First Second)
In the worlds of these graphic novels, cities, storms and forests shape the story (Photo: As I Dream of You/First Second)
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These five graphic novels to read in 2026 turn setting into a character, blending story, art and atmosphere
Graphic novels are increasingly using their settings not just as backdrops but as active elements of storytelling, shaping mood, character and plot. In 2026, several releases place environment at the centre of the narrative, from urban landscapes infused with magic to forests that dictate the rhythm of a story. These works offer more than plot and dialogue—they invite readers into fully realised spaces where every alley, storm or room contributes to the emotional and thematic experience. For those seeking graphic novels to read in 2026, the following five titles exemplify this approach, demonstrating how setting can be as compelling as character or action.
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‘Thief of Time’ (Discworld Graphic Novel Adaptation)
Above ‘Thief of Time’ (Discworld Graphic Novel Adaptation) (Photo: Pratchett Online/Instagram)
‘Thief of Time’ (Discworld Graphic Novel Adaptation) (Photo: Pratchett Online/Instagram)
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Author: adapted by Gary Chudleigh from the Terry Pratchett novel
Illustrator: Rachael Stott, with colours by Ellie Wright
Pratchett’s Discworld tale of time and entropy is reframed here in sequential art. Set for release in April 2026, Thief of Time follows Susan Sto Helit, granddaughter of Death, and the History Monks as they race against a clockmaker who is constructing a device that could freeze time itself. The graphic treatment uses detailed visuals to represent Discworld’s varied locations, from the Unseen University to the mechanical Clock of the World, making the geography part of how the story unfolds.
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‘The Dragons of Paris’
Above ‘The Dragons of Paris’ (Photo: Magnetic Press)
‘The Dragons of Paris’ (Photo: Magnetic Press)
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Author: Joann Sfar
Illustrator: Tony Sandoval
Set in an alternate Belle Époque Paris, dragons have long been bound within the city’s gargoyles. In the book’s central conflict, a former circus performer from Hawaii and a rescued mermaid trigger the awakening of these ancient creatures. As dragons emerge, Paris becomes a landscape of hidden threats and unexpected alliances. Sandoval’s artwork blends surreal figures and mythic elements with recognisable Parisian streets, and Sfar’s writing weaves humour, romance and legend into the city’s fabric.
‘A Quiet Place: Storm Warning
Above ‘A Quiet Place: Storm Warning’ – March 2026 (IDW Publishing)
Author: Phil Hester
Illustrator: Ryan Kelly
Colourist: Lee Loughridge
This horror comic series expands the A Quiet Place franchise into graphic form. Set in the fictional town of Pearl, Iowa, the story centres on characters, including the local fire chief, as they contend with rising flood waters and the continuing need for silence to avoid alien threats. Landscapes and weather conditions are integral to threat and strategy, and the art emphasises that tension visually rather than through exposition alone. These landscapes contribute to pacing and tension, making this one of the graphic novels to read in 2026 for those interested in how setting drives survival storytelling.
‘Love Me to Death’ Volume 1
Above ‘Love Me to Death’ Volume 1 (Photo: Little Brown Young Readers US)
‘Love Me to Death’ Volume 1 (Photo: Little Brown Young Readers US)
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Authors/creators: Julian Jauregui and Tara Mueller (original Webtoon creators)
This graphic adaptation brings the popular Love Me to Death Webtoon into print with new lore. The original story focuses on a complex relationship involving a wealthy patron, his resurrected bride and Victor, a necromancer. Cultural influences drawn from Mexican heritage shape how locations in the story contribute to character motivations and emotional beats, with the print edition adding material and visual detail not present in the online version. For lists of graphic novels to read in 2026, this first volume offers worldbuilding through place.
‘As I Dream of You’
Above ‘As I Dream of You’ (Photo: First Second)
‘As I Dream of You’ (Photo: First Second)
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Author: Jennifer Lee
Illustrator: LeUyen Pham
This story follows a young girl navigating dreams and waking life as she seeks to reunite with a loved one lost in a magical realm. Pham’s expressive art brings dreamscapes and real-world spaces to life, merging fantastical and grounded settings. Themes of love, memory and discovery are explored through environments that actively shape the narrative.
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Chonx Tibajia is a senior editor at Tatler Asia’s T-Labs team, where she writes widely on lifestyle subjects including beauty, style, entertainment and travel. She has a long career in journalism, including roles as a columnist at The Philippine Star, and is the founder of the creative platform Pineappleversed. Beyond Tatler, her bylines appear in regional lifestyle and business publications, showcasing a broad portfolio that spans beauty trends, travel guides and culture pieces.
