Kids graphic novels were a bright spot in the book business, according to information released by The NPD Group. Unit sales of print books were up 1.9% in the U.S. in 2017, continuing the modest single-digit growth book sales have seen over the past few years. Leading the growth was a 20% growth rate in kids graphic novels, driven by sales of Captain Underpants creator Dav Pilkey’s Dog Man and Cat Kid graphic novel series, NPD reported.
The holiday season for book sales was late, with sales declines from November 26 to December 9 and then a 7% surge in the last week before Christmas. Overall U.S. unit book sales were up 2% for the 8-week holiday season, according to NPD.

As Trade Book Sales Grow
Posted by Milton Griepp on January 23, 2018 @ 2:04 am CT

MORE COMICS
Downsizing, Shifting Sources, Looking for Capital
May 9, 2025
Funko disclosed a series of moves to deal with the impact of tariffs on its business with its quarterly report, including downsizing, shifting sources, and looking for capital.
With Pre-Release Sellout
May 9, 2025
Battle Beast #1 has orders for "nearly 400,000 copies worldwide," and has sold out at the distributor level prior to release.
MORE NEWS
Themed-Dice Pack Set by Sirius Dice
May 9, 2025
Sirius Dice will release Dungeons & Dragons: Xanthar's Treasure , a new themed-dice pack set.
New Tile-Placement Game from Floodgate
May 9, 2025
Floodgate Games will release Hedge Mage, a new tile-placement game in which wizards battle wizards, this summer.