Hollywood's appetite for turning comics into TV shows is insatiable, and 2026 is no exception. From Supergirl to X-Men '97, and with Spider-Man: Brand New Day and Avengers: Doomsday on the horizon, the trend shows no signs of slowing. Even indie hits like Invincible and The Walking Dead have become critical darlings. But one of the year's biggest graphic novels comes from a different corner of the comic world—and it might just be the perfect candidate for a truly original animated series.
That book is Mixed Feelings, written by Sara Amini and illustrated by Shadia Amin. A semi-autobiographical story, it follows a girl named Sara navigating middle school while grappling with being separated from her best friend, her Iranian-Colombian heritage, and the chaos that comes with joining the drama club. Amini's script is sharp, heartfelt, and laugh-out-loud funny, while Amin's expressive artwork brings every emotion to life. It's no wonder the book has earned rave reviews and widespread media attention—and it's easy to see why fans are already dreaming of an animated adaptation.
Why 'Mixed Feelings' Feels Built for Animation
While comic fans often debate which superhero deserves the next big-budget series, Mixed Feelings feels like it was practically designed for the small screen. Its visual style is already animated in spirit, and many of its chapters—like Sara's first volleyball game or her first day at school—read like standalone episodes of a beloved sitcom. Think Bob's Burgers or The Simpsons, but with an added layer of cultural identity and shifting friendships.
In a promotional video, Amini described the book as "a deeply specific story to my life, but also a deeply relatable story to readers everywhere." That universal appeal is exactly what makes it so promising for television. And there's a clever storytelling device that would set it apart: Sara's love of TV often sparks imaginative daydreams. When she joins the Spanish club, for instance, a discussion about her heritage plays out like a scene from a Law & Order spinoff. Unlike the random cutaways in Family Guy, these moments are witty and purposeful, highlighting the insecurities of being a pre-teen. Anyone who's ever felt caught between two worlds will see themselves in those scenes.
The Creator Behind the Pages
Sara Amini isn't just a writer—she's also an actress with a growing TV résumé. You might recognize her from Hulu's Future Man or Peacock's The Copenhagen Test, but her standout role came opposite Bob Odenkirk in Lucky Hank. That same sharp wit she brings to the screen is on full display in Mixed Feelings. It wouldn't be a stretch to imagine her voicing the lead character or writing episodes for an animated version.
If you pick up Mixed Feelings and fall in love, there's good news: Amini and Amin are planning a trilogy. The second installment, Mixed Signals, is set for release this October. Whether or not it makes the leap to TV, Mixed Feelings is already proof that the world of comics has so much more to offer beyond capes and cowboys.
For fans of hidden gem animated shows, this could be the next must-watch. And if you're looking for more great American storytelling, check out our ranking of the best American drama shows of all time.
