Kindness Is the Strongest Magic of All!

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

JAN. 28, 2026 (PORTLAND, OR) — Some adventures begin loudly. Others begin quietly and change everything.

Papercutz, the beloved kids imprint of Mad Cave Studios, proudly announces THE STONE OF SHIRO: THE FALL OF SHIRO, the forthcoming middle-grade graphic novel debut from writer Sue Ruffle, illustrated by Stefano Spaziani (Ninjago, Batman, Spider-Man), with lettering by Ringo Award-nominated Justin Birch.

Blending classic fantasy adventure with warmth and humor, The Stone of Shiro: The Fall of Shiro centers a different kind of hero, one defined by compassion, resilience, and the courage to care. A story for the quiet kids and the gentle kids, and for readers who feel deeply and do not always see themselves reflected in traditional heroic narratives. Found family and empathy as a strength guide every step of the journey.

Why him? He doesn’t want to be a hero… but he’s their only hope!

In the magical realm of Shiro, life for the young Mushling Cale is anything but easy. He’s stuck with rowdy housemates, falling behind at school, and barely scraping by as a part-time busboy. His only joys are his beloved pet Truffles and a strange blue button he wears for protection.

Cale just wants to be left alone with Truffles, but when alien invaders steal the magical Stone that protects his world, Cale is unwittingly thrust into a perilous quest to find it. Armed only with a mysterious scroll, separated from Truffles and stripped of his talisman button, he and two loyal friends are pulled into an unknown, dark, and dangerous world. Lost and vulnerable, Cale must now outwit shadowy creatures, survive impossible challenges, unlock ancient secrets, and find the courage to become the hero Shiro needs… before it’s too late!

Author Sue Ruffle said, “At its heart, this is a story for children who don’t see themselves as heroes yet… the quiet kids, the gentle kids, the ones who care deeply but don’t always feel brave. If this book helps even one child to see that their kindness matters and that they, too, can make a difference, then our story deserves to be in as many hands as possible. And I’m excited to be working with Papercutz to make this happen. Because I believe that every child deserves a story that ‘sees’ them!”

“The Stone of Shiro is a reminder to not give up when life feels difficult,” added Stefano Spaziani. “Cale is small, unprepared, and often afraid. But with determination and the help of trusted friends, he finds the strength to face challenges that seem far beyond him. I hope Cale can be an example and inspiration for all of us.”

Drawing from a tradition of European influences, pairing expressive art and imaginative worldbuilding with a character-led storytelling, The Stone of Shiro: The Fall of Shiro is for readers drawn to animated fantasy adventures like How to Train Your Dragon, Trollhunters, and The Dragon Prince—blending imaginative worlds, quirky creatures, and heartfelt friendships with character-first storytelling.

The Stone of Shiro: The Fall of Shiro is available in paperback ($12.99, ISBN 9781545826829) and hardcover ($17.99, ISBN 9781545826836) formats, will be released on June 30, 2026, and is now available for preorder through comic retailers, bookstores, and directly from Papercutz.