In a world built to contain her, one platypus chose freedom

FEB. 10, 2026, (PORTLAND, OR) — In 1957, one small animal made a very big choice… 

Maverick, the young adult imprint of Mad Cave Studios, is proud to announce PENELOPE’S ESCAPE FROM THE PLATYPUSARY, an exciting historical fiction graphic novel written by Arianna Irwin (Mean Girls: Senior Year, 101 Dalmatians: Penny’s Big Splash) and Italian illustrator Prenzy (On the Stump, Flawed), with colors by Nicolo Laporini and lettering by Micah Myers.

Inspired by a real-life event, Penelope’s Escape from the Platypusary reframes an unusual footnote in history into a bold, funny, and deeply resonant story about agency, autonomy, and the courage to choose yourself, even when the world insists otherwise!

In 1957, Penelope the Platypus successfully escaped the Bronx Zoo and her “destined” mate, Cecil, with the help of some unlikely allies. Throughout her adventure, Penelope and the readers realize the power that comes with reclaiming your agency.

Writer Arianna Irwin reflected on this true-story-inspired escape: “I stumbled upon Penelope’s story, but was instantly captivated by this fearless 1950s platypus who refused to accept her fate. I thought she deserved an epic hero’s adventure to match her real-life resilience. I hope readers can laugh with Penelope, root for her, and understand you always have choices—you just have to be brave enough to make one.”

Prenzy, whose expressive art and cinematic pacing bring Penelope’s journey to life, added, “I’m thrilled to have illustrated this comic book written by Arianna Irwin, because it represents a sensitive and powerful way to introduce readers to important issues. I hope that Penelope’s Escape From The Platypusary will resonate with readers and encourage awareness and compassion around the treatment of animals.”

Spanning 168 pages, Penelope’s Escape from the Platypusary is a bold, funny, and heartfelt hero’s journey for readers ages 14+, inviting them to explore big ideas through empathy and momentum. The result is a story that meets teens where they are, affirming that independence is earned through action, not permission. It’s a reminder that rebellion doesn’t always look loud, and that the bravest thing you can do is choose for yourself.

Penelope’s Escape from the Platypusarypublishes June 9, 2026, in paperback (ISBN: 9781545826911) and hardcover (ISBN: HC: 9781545836040) wherever books are sold. Order now through your favorite comic shop, bookstore, or directly from maverickcomics.com.