Not every win looks the same…

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

APR. 3, 2026 (PORTLAND, OR) — This summer, Mad Cave Studios’ Nakama Press imprint invites readers into the unexpected world of competitive dog shows with BEST FRIEND SHOW, a heartwarming YA graphic novel about healing, friendship, and first love, set against the high-stakes world of competitive dog shows.

Written by Xeric grant-awarded and Ignatz Award-nominated creator Craig Hurd-McKenney (Some Strange Disturbances, The Brontës: Infernal Angria, Boris Karloff’s Gold Key Mysteries) and brought to life by Bay Area-based illustrator and comics artist Melisa Jones, Best Friend Show blends emotional honesty with the unique rhythms of the dog show circuit, creating a story that feels as grounded as it is uplifting.

Sixteen-year-old Landon Snyder never expected to spend his summer in the world of dog shows. But after a family illness combined with a breakup sends him to live with his Aunt Iva, who runs a bustling dog rescue, Landon discovers a surprising talent for training—and a bond with Blue, Iva’s champion show dog. Between a cocky rival, a shy new friend who sees him like no one else, and the pressures of the Best in Show, Landon learns that healing doesn’t always come with a ribbon…but sometimes with love, loyalty, and second chances.

That perspective carries through from the creators themselves.

“There is nothing in this world like the joy and unconditional love of a dog in the house,” said Craig Hurd-McKenney. “My rescue dogs, from Widget to Clovis, have saved me over and over and over again. While I have not shown dogs, I did agility training with my girl, Lucy. It brought us closer together and made us both more confident. My hope is that, through Best Friend Show, people will discover a self-confidence that only a deeper connection to our canine comrades can bring, and a community & social connection that a mutual love of dogs can provide.”

Melisa Jones added, “I have grown up with dogs and will one day grow old with dogs, which is why I’m so excited to be a part of a project that celebrates our relationship with dogs and how they influence our connections with people. Everyone who knows me knows my dogs, Nicky, Elliot, and Callie. My hope is for Best Friend Show to bring readers as much joy as my dogs have brought me.”

Best Friend Show speaks to readers navigating change, identity, and the quiet courage it takes to start over. It’s a coming-of-age story rooted in found family, first love, and the bond between humans and animals that can reshape everything. A softer, character-driven take on competition with a sports manga edge, it will appeal to fans of Prince of Tennis, Haikyuu!!, and Heartstopper.

Best Friend Show goes on sale August 11, 2026, in paperback (ISBN: 9781545827611 | $10.99). Preorder at your favorite bookstore, comic shop, or from nakamapress.com.