Picture a Kansas-born storyteller who weaves queer joy and vibrant magic into graphic novels—meet Niki Smith! Now calling Munich, Germany, home, this Lambda Literary Award-nominated creator has carved a niche in comics with her heartfelt, inclusive narratives. From the fantasy epic The Deep & Dark Blue to the steamy Crossplay, Smith’s work celebrates diverse identities with stunning art and bold storytelling.
Smith’s comics aren’t just stories—they’re a call to embrace who you are. Her ability to blend adventure, identity, and heart has made her a beloved voice in queer graphic literature. Ready to dive into her world?
The Making of Niki Smith
Growing up in Kansas, Niki Smith was captivated by manga, anime, and stories like Mulan and Tamora Pierce’s Alanna series, where characters blurred gender lines. These tales sparked her love for storytelling, though she longed for queer and trans heroes who didn’t revert to cis, straight norms. After moving to Germany with her wife, Smith began crafting comics that filled this gap, drawing on her roots and passion for diverse representation.
Her career kicked off with contributions to anthologies like Beyond and online platforms like Filthy Figments. Smith’s early work, often serialized, showcased her knack for blending humor, heart, and heat. This foundation led to her breakout graphic novels, where she honed a style that’s both accessible and deeply personal.
Niki Smith’s Unforgettable Stories
Smith’s debut middle-grade graphic novel, The Deep & Dark Blue, is a fantasy triumph. After a coup forces noble twins Hawke and Grayson to flee, they disguise themselves as girls in the magical Communion of Blue. For Grayson, who comes out as trans girl Grayce, the disguise is a revelation. With vibrant blue hues and intricate world-building inspired by weaving and mythology, the book earned praise as a landmark in trans representation.
Crossplay, a Lambda-nominated erotic graphic novel, dives into fandom and self-discovery at an anime convention. It’s a sexy, heartfelt exploration of gender, sexuality, and cosplay, with a diverse cast navigating crushes and identities. Smith’s bold art and inclusive storytelling make it a standout. The Golden Hour, a quieter tale, tackles PTSD and queer first love in rural Kansas, proving her versatility. Her latest, Sea Legs, a collaboration with Jules Bakes, continues her streak of queer, vibrant comics.
Smith’s style is unmistakable: lush colors, dynamic layouts, and characters who leap off the page. Whether crafting fantasy epics or contemporary stories, she centers queer joy, found family, and the courage to be yourself, making her work resonate with readers of all ages.
Why Niki Smith Matters
Niki Smith is reshaping graphic literature by putting queer and trans kids at the heart of epic adventures. Her stories challenge the status quo, offering representation that was scarce in her own childhood. Books like The Deep & Dark Blue have landed on best-of lists from Kirkus, NYPL, and YALSA, affirming her impact on young readers and the industry.
Beyond awards, Smith’s advocacy for inclusive libraries and her vibrant online presence inspire creators and fans alike. Her work proves that comics can be both fun and profound, paving the way for a more diverse future in storytelling.
- Born: Kansas, USA
- Key Works: The Deep & Dark Blue, Crossplay, The Golden Hour, Sea Legs
- Awards: Lambda Literary Award nominee for Crossplay, 2021 Kirkus Best Book for The Golden Hour
- Current Home: Munich, Germany
Snag The Deep & Dark Blue or Crossplay and dive into Niki Smith’s colorful, queer universe! Her stories are a celebration of identity and adventure—perfect for anyone who loves comics with heart.