Come celebrate annual Free Comic Book Day by picking up EIGHT free comic books! I’ll be signing and hanging out all day alongside Gary Dumm, John G, and Joseph Sieracki.
Join us as we read through Grace's own play, Explicit Content for Teens, which explores "the delicate balance between free speech, censorship, and artistic expression" as a group of teens discuss how to handle the performance of a "controversial" play. No acting or theater experience needed, open to all!
This workshop is a part of my 2026 Bexley Public Library Writer-in-Residence programming. For more information and to register, click here.
A practical, honest overview of what it takes to go from “I have an idea” to “I’m holding my book in my hands.” We'll walk through every step of the journey, including how to pitch to agents, how traditional publishing compares to self-publishing, and what it’s really like working with editors and publicists. This workshop is great for writers at any stage, whether you’re just starting out or deep into a draft. Includes a robust Q&A.
This workshop is a part of my 2026 Bexley Public Library Writer-in-Residence programming. For more information and to register, click here.
Join us for a summer of fun for the whole family! Looking for creative ways to keep your kids inspired this summer? Join teaching artists in our Summer Workshop Series — a hands-on, imagination-filled adventure for families with kids ages 6 and up!
Each workshop dives into the world of cartoons and comics with fun, interactive workshops led by renowned cartoonists. From drawing your own characters to exploring the stories behind your favorite comic strips, there’s something for every young creator (and grown-up, too!).
For more information, check out the Billy Ireland Cartoon Library and Museum website.
Learn about creating graphic novels for kids and teens from bestselling author of the Lumberjanes series, Grace Ellis. Q&A and book signing to follow. Books will be available for purchase.
For more information, check out the Westerville Library website.
So many forms of writing are scripts: plays and movies and TV, of course, but also comic books, podcasts, TikToks, and more. In this workshop, we’ll explore the fundamentals of scriptwriting, from what a script looks like, the tools and power of writing for audio/visual media, and what makes dialogue click. We'll read samples from a variety of scripts, experiment with different techniques, and then draft mini-scripts of our own. Perfect for beginners or writers curious about a new form.
This workshop is a part of my 2026 Bexley Public Library Writer-in-Residence programming. For more information and to register, click here.
Noble and Greenough Middle School presents a fully staged production of my new play "Explicit Content for Teens."
Everyone has a book they want to write, but that first blank page can be a huge hurdle. In this workshop, we’ll explore techniques for getting started and talk about what makes an opening page effective, inviting, and impossible to put down. Participants will read a few great “first pages” before drafting the first page of a writing project of their own, whether it’s a novel, memoir, poetry collection, comic, or play.
This workshop is a part of my 2026 Bexley Public Library Writer-in-Residence programming. For more information and to register, click here.
In the age of AI, polished writing is no longer rare, but authentic writing is. This joyful, low-pressure workshop explores how writing can enrich our daily lives, not just through big projects like novels or memoirs, but also emails, texts, dating profiles, greeting cards, and more. We’ll talk about finding your voice, getting clear on what you want to say, and letting go of the pressure to “sound like a writer.” Then we’ll dive into short, guided exercises to write with more ease and authenticity. Participants are encouraged to bring a small idea or project to share (the smaller, the better!).
This workshop is a part of my 2026 Bexley Public Library Writer-in-Residence programming. For more information and to register, click here.
I’m going to SDCC this year! It’s still early, so I’m in the process of putting together my lineup of panels and signings. I’m planning on being there Thursday and Friday!
Come celebrate the release of the new Superman movie!
5:00pm - A Superhero Homecoming (Tower City) In conversation, talking about my work for DC and other fun stuff
7:00pm - Cleveland Public Library Sign-a-Palooza (Cleveland Public Library, Main Campus)
This event has a stacked lineup, including Brian Michael Bendis, Phillip Kennedy Johnson, Gene Luen Yang, Andrew Aydin, and Sina Grace.
This is my hometown pride event!
Thursday, June 26, 5:30 p.m.: “Growing Up LGBTQ+ in Sandusky”, a heartfelt panel featuring local LGBTQIA+ voices, including Jim Obergefell, the lead plaintiff of the Supreme Court case that legalized same-sex marriage. (This event is part of a ticketed fundraiser.)
Saturday, June 28, 11 a.m.: Shoreline Pride Sandusky, including a parade and an event with me, details TBA
Learn about creating graphic novels for kids and teens from bestselling author of the Lumberjanes series, Grace Ellis. Q&A and book signing to follow. Books will be available for purchase.
A convention for readers and writers of stories that feature LGBTQIA2S+ characters and experiences. This is mostly a romance convention! What’s that like? Let’s find out together!
Panel: Queer Representation in Young Adult Stories (Friday, May 23, 2:30 p.m.) with Brian D. Kennedy, Paul Michael Winters, and Aiden Thomas; moderated by Kirt Graves
The Ohio State Black Box Series presents a fully staged production of my new play "Explicit Content for Teens."
An author visit in support of the library’s book club reading Flung Out of Space!
Meet Grace Ellis, NYT-bestselling, GLAAD Media Award–winning script writer and author of graphic novels including Lumberjanes and Moonstruck. She will discuss her latest book, Flung Out of Space: Inspired by the Indecent Adventures of Patricia Highsmith, which won the 2023 Eisner Award for Best Reality-Based Work and was a NYT Notable Book of 2022. Purchase copies of her books which she will sign. No registration, 18+.
For more information, check out the library’s event page.
Meet Grace Ellis, Columbus-area author, co-writer of Lumberjanes, and writer of Diana and the Hero's Journey! Grace will talk about her comics and share tips for writing your own story.
For more information, please visit the library’s event page.
Learn about creating graphic novels for kids and teens from bestselling author of the Lumberjanes series, Grace Ellis. Q&A and book signing to follow. (Books will be available for purchase).
For more information, please visit the Westerville Public Library event page.
Spotlight on Grace Ellis
Friday, 3/29/24
5:00—6:00
Room 211
Signing: 6:15—7:00 in Mysterious Galaxy Author Signing Area
Join Grace Ellis (Lumberjanes) and Sara Miller (DC Books for Young Readers editor) for a focused Q&A session that explores Ellis’s body of work from writing Lumberjanes to iconic DC characters like Lois Lane, Wonder Woman, and Harley Quinn. They'll discuss Ellis's journey through comic storytelling, touching on her unique approach to narrative across genres, including her exploration of real-life figures like Patricia Highsmith. This panel offers insights into the creative and technical aspects of comic writing and storytelling, aimed at fans, writers, and anyone interested in the ways in which we tell stories - no matter the audience.
Worlds We See, Worlds We Want to See
Saturday, 3/30/24
10:00—11:00
Room 209
Signing: 11:15—12:00 in Mysterious Galaxy Author Signing Area
Join authors Brandon Hoàng (Gloria Buenrostro Is Not My Girlfriend), LaDarrion Williams (Blood at the Root), Victoria Ying (Hungry Ghost), and WonderCon Special Guest Grace Ellis as they discuss using fiction to reflect on the self and to project new possibilities into the world. Discover how they're pushing themselves while pushing the boundaries of novels, comics, plays, and more. Moderated by Librarian Judy Prince-Neeb (Torrance Public Library).
Celebrate Banned Books Week by joining us for a dynamic evening of conversation with playwright and author Grace Ellis (Explicit Content for Teens, Flung Out of Space) and Dan Gearino, Columbus-based journalist and writer. Grace has had her work banned and has written about the effects of censorship on creators, educators, and readers. How can we, as a community, stand against censorship and advocate for freedom of expression? What tangible actions can we take to protect the diversity of ideas in our literary landscape? Don't miss this opportunity to join in on this timely conversation, challenge the status quo, and become part of the solution.
For more information, please visit the Bexley Public Library website.
Join me at Cartoon Crossroads Columbus at the Laughing Ogre table! I’ll be signing pretty much everything!
The Ohio State Black Box Series presents a FREE staged reading of the new play "Explicit Content for Teens." Dive into the heart of a high school drama club's battle against censorship as they grapple with what's "appropriate" for their age, especially with possible gay subtext at play. In a world where artistic expression bumps up against social issues, you, the audience, hold the power to shape the ending. Will the show go on or will it be silenced forever? Your vote decides! Stay afterward for a thought-provoking talkback session about the nuances of censorship.
To register to attend (or participate!), please visit the OSU Black Box Series website.
Come celebrate Flung Out of Space’s Eisner Award at this signing!
Meeting Room 2B
This panel is a part of the Columbus Book Festival.
Don’t put these books in a box - they defy easy labels! Try a magical vengeance Brazilian thriller, a cat-centered sci-fi short story collection or a mostly true graphic novel about a lesbian crime writer.
Featuring Tori Eldridge (Dance Among the Flames), Grace Ellis (Flung Out of Space), and Mary Turzillo (Cosmic Cats & Fantastic Furballs)
Meeting Room 2A
This panel is a part of the Columbus Book Festival.
Small groups spend 5 minutes with each author to hear all about their book before moving to another author’s table. Find your perfect literary match!
Featuring Neely Tubati Alexander, Sara Brunsvold, Grace Ellis, Courtney Kae, Kaija Langley & Rasheed Newson
One night only! A full production of a new play about censorship. Admission is free, no tickets required. The show will be in the Little Theatre.
While it is my hope that this play has a life beyond this production, this particular production is special. The cast and crew working on this production were close collaborators in the writing of the show itself; many moments of dialog were lifted verbatim from my many conversations with them. This is going to be a very special and unique evening of theater.
“Explicit Content for Teens” is rated PG-13 for strong language.
A panel about graphic novels with artist Bryan Moss! Flung Out of Space will be available to purchase from a local bookseller, and I’ll be on hand to sign them as well.
This is a small, quirky festival, so be sure to check out the other fun activities they have planned!
This is a pre-recorded Zoom panel about noir graphic novels. The panel is actually already recorded, and it’s a good one! A great, smart group of people, some very fun stories, definitely worth checking out.
Join me for an adult writing workshop at the Thurber House! Click here for registration and additional information.
Are you working on a graphic novel or comic? Ever wanted to give it a try? Join us for this refreshing twist on our popular Go Rogue workshops! New this season: based on your feedback, we have extended our Go Rogue workshops to 1.5 hours.
Graphic novels like Maus, Watchmen, and Heartstopper, combined with the ever-expanding comics universes, have pushed a once-marginalized media to the forefront of popular literature. Are you curious about what goes into writing a graphic novel script? Have you ever seen a graphic novel or comic book and thought, "I could do that!"? In this class, NYT bestselling graphic novel author Grace Ellis assures you that yes, you can do that! Grace will introduce graphic novels and comics, how to identify which stories are made for the medium, and the basics of constructing a graphic novel or comic script.
3:30-4:30p: Talking Graphic Novels and Comics (teen event): Join New York Times Bestselling author and co-creator of the middle grade graphic novel series, LUMBERJANES, Grace Ellis, in a special youth-only event as she shares about the creative process, writing comics and graphic novels, what the industry is like, and answers any of your questions.
7-8p: The Hidden History of Patricia Highsmith: Join New York Times Bestselling author, Grace Ellis, for a discussion about her latest book, FLUNG OUT OF SPACE, a based-on-a-true-story graphic novel about infamous noir suspense writer Patricia Highsmith. Highsmith was a problematic literary figure with a complicated legacy of her positive impact on LGBTQ+ and American literature as well as her harmful bigotry and prejudice. FLUNG OUT OF SPACE critically examines Highsmith's struggles and prejudices while tracking her journey from anonymous comics author to literary icon.
Questions and book signing to follow discussion.
3:30p - 4p: signing
4p Historical Biography in Comics panel: This panel features acclaimed creators who have all taken on the challenges and responsibilities involved in telling the life stories of historical figures. Join Grace Ellis (Flung Out of Space, Lumberjanes, Moonstruck), Nate Powell (March, Run, Two Dead, Save It for Later), and Scott Chantler (Two Generals, Northwest Passage, and Bix), along with moderator Andrew Kunka (Autobiographical Comics, The Life and Comics of Howard Cruse).
Join Grace Ellis (Lumberjanes, Moonstruck, Flung Out of Space) for a fun and educational presentation about writing scripts for comics. Grace will talk about story structure, collaborating with artists as a writer, and how to tell a story using the unique strengths of the comics medium, among other topics.
This talk is a part of Cartoon Crossroads Columbus 2022. For more information, click here.
10:00a-11a Image Booth #1915: Moonstruck book signing
4:00p, Room: 29AB – Abrams ComicArts: Surely Books
Join bestselling author Mariko Tamaki as she introduces Surely Books, a newly launched line of graphic novels from Abrams ComicArts dedicated to expanding the presence of LGBTQIA creators and content in the comics world. Tamaki will share the creative process and vision behind the line, highlight recent releases, and give a sneak preview of what’s coming up. Joining the panel are Surely authors Grace Ellis (Flung Out of Space), Talia Dutton (M Is for Monster), and Josh Trujillo (Washington’s Gay General) and Abrams ComicArts Senior Editor Charlotte Greenbaum.
5:30p-6:30p, Abrams Booth #1217: Flung Out of Space book signing
Registration is required for this event!
Film, noir literature, and comics combine for a screening & author event at The Drexel Theatre. A screening of the 2015 Todd Haynes film Carol will begin at 6:30 p.m. followed by a discussion with graphic novel author Grace Ellis (Lumberjanes, Batwoman, Moonstruck).
Patricia Highsmith was a problematic literary figure with a complicated legacy. Highsmith's positive impact on LGBTQ+ literature, and American literature in general, is unquestionable with novels like The Price of Salt (later retitled Carol), The Talented Mr. Ripley, and Strangers on a Train. On the other side, Highsmith was just as well known for her bigotry, holding harmful beliefs that were racist, anti-Semitic, and misogynistic. Grace Ellis's most recent graphic novel, Flung Out of Space: Inspired by the Indecent Adventures of Patricia Highsmith, critically examines Highsmith's struggles and prejudices while tracking her journey from anonymous comics author through her creative streak to literary icon. From the book's preface, "If you read this book and end up conflicted about Highsmith and her legacy: good."
Grace Ellis will be in conversation with Caitlin McGurk, Associate Curator for Outreach at the Billy Ireland Cartoon Library & Museum, discussing writing in the graphic novel form, Patricia Highsmith's influence on literature, comics, and film, and accurately portraying such a charismatic and problematic figure in Flung Out of Space.
