2025 Harvey Awards Winners

BLBlankenship

Oct 19, 2025 - 22:10

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The Harvey Awards, named after the legendary cartoonist and editor Harvey Kurtzman, continue to shine as one of the most prestigious honors in the comics industry. Held annually at New York Comic Con (NYCC), these awards celebrate outstanding achievements across various categories, recognizing creators who push the boundaries of storytelling, art, and innovation in graphic literature. The 2025 ceremony, which took place on October 10 amid the bustling energy of NYCC, was a vibrant testament to the enduring power of comics to captivate, inspire, and entertain audiences of all ages.

This year's winners represent a diverse array of talents, from indie darlings to blockbuster adaptations, highlighting the global reach and creative depth of the medium. Whether you're a longtime comics enthusiast or a newcomer eager to dive into fresh narratives, the 2025 Harvey Awards offer a perfect roadmap to some of the best works out there. Let's spotlight the winners and why they deserve your attention—grab these titles, support the creators, and immerse yourself in the world of comics!

Hall of Fame Inductees: Honoring Legends

Before diving into the category winners, a special shoutout goes to the 2025 Harvey Awards Hall of Fame inductees. These visionaries have shaped the industry for decades, and their induction serves as a reminder of comics' rich history. The living inductees include:

Wendy and Richard Pini, the dynamic duo behind the groundbreaking ElfQuest series, which blended fantasy, adventure, and social commentary in ways that redefined independent publishing.
Patrick McDonnell, beloved creator of the heartwarming comic strip Mutts and works like The Super Hero’s Journey, known for his whimsical art and advocacy for animal welfare.
John Byrne, a powerhouse artist whose iconic runs on X-Men, Fantastic Four, and Superman have influenced generations of superhero storytelling.

Posthumous honors were bestowed upon:

Peter David, celebrated for his masterful writing on The Incredible Hulk, Star Trek, and Fallen Angel, bringing depth and humanity to complex characters.
Barbara Shermund, one of the first women cartoonists at The New Yorker, whose sharp wit and pioneering spirit paved the way for female voices in humor and illustration.

These inductees embody the spirit of innovation that the Harvey Awards champion, and their legacies continue to inspire new creators.

The 2025 Category Winners: A Showcase of Brilliance

Voted on by comics professionals, the winners span genres and formats, proving that great stories can come from anywhere—print, digital, or even the big screen. Here's the full rundown:

Category	Winner	Why It Stands Out
Book of the Year	Beneath the Trees Where Nobody Sees by Patrick Horvath (IDW Publishing)	This gripping tale blends horror and whimsy in a animal-populated world, delivering twists that keep readers on the edge. Horvath's solo effort as writer and artist showcases raw talent and storytelling prowess—perfect for fans of dark, clever narratives.
Digital Book of the Year	Sarah’s Scribbles by Sarah Anderson (GoComics)	Anderson's relatable, hilarious webcomics capture the absurdities of everyday life with charm and insight. In a digital age, this win highlights how online platforms are revolutionizing comics accessibility and humor.
Best Children’s Book	The Cartoonists Club by Raina Telgemeier & Scott McCloud (Graphix)	A meta-adventure about kids forming a comics club, this collaboration from two industry giants teaches creativity while entertaining. It's an ideal gateway for young readers to discover the joy of making their own stories.
Best Young Adult Book	Raised by Ghosts by Briana Loewinsohn (Fantagraphics)	Exploring themes of loss, identity, and the supernatural, this poignant graphic novel resonates with teens navigating complex emotions. Loewinsohn's evocative art and narrative make it a must-read for YA fans seeking depth.
Best Manga	Witch Hat Atelier by Kamome Shirahama; translated by Stephen Kohler (Kodansha Comics)	A magical world where spells are drawn like art, this series dazzles with intricate illustrations and a fresh take on fantasy. Shirahama's work bridges cultures, proving manga's universal appeal.
Best International Book	Blacksad: They All Fall Down Part 2 by Juan Díaz Canales & Juanjo Guarnido; translated by Diana Schutz & Brandon Kander (Dark Horse Books)	This noir detective story featuring anthropomorphic animals tackles social issues with stunning watercolor art. It's a masterclass in international comics, blending European flair with hard-hitting themes.
Best Adaptation from Comic Book/Graphic Novel	Superman (DC Studios), directed by James Gunn. Based on Superman (DC Comics), created by Jerry Siegel & Joe Shuster	Gunn's fresh take on the Man of Steel brings heart, humor, and spectacle to the screen, honoring the source material while appealing to modern audiences. This win underscores comics' influence on blockbuster entertainment.

These winners aren't just awards—they're invitations to explore new worlds. From the cozy humor of Sarah’s Scribbles to the epic scope of Superman, there's something here for every taste. Comics are more vibrant than ever, and the Harvey Awards remind us why: they foster creativity that connects us all.

NYCC itself was the perfect backdrop, with panels, signings, and fan interactions amplifying the excitement. If you missed it, mark your calendar for next year—these events are where the magic happens!