Mabel & Merryglow: The Spark

4.8

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Author(s)

Julien Arnal

Co-Authors / Illustrators

Publisher

Post Wave

Genre(s)

Age Range

Release Date

April 28, 2026

ISBN

979-8895090732

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A warm, comforting story about a turtle facing her fears and discovering true friendship when the darkness feels overwhelming.

When darkness falls, Mabel the turtle’s fears come alive. She could hide in her shell like her family, but she’s too afraid of the dark! With nowhere to hide, she spends her days fearing the night ahead. When she finally does fall asleep, she has terrible dreams . . .

But when a kind-hearted firefly joins her for tea, he brings with him a spark of light. He teaches her to be brave in the night, to embrace the darkness and safety of her shell, and to no longer be ashamed of her fears. Told though comic book panels, this story approaches anxiety in a unique and comforting way.

COMIC BOOK INSPIRATION: With comic book panels throughout, this book bridges encourages independent reading.

UNIQUE APPROACH TO ANXIETY: A heartfelt story that approaches anxiety in a unique way, this book can help children overcome their own fears and worries.

STUNNING, VIBRANT ILLUSTRATIONS: Gorgeous artwork brings these lovable characters to life.

Perfect for:

Parents and grandparents
Kindergarten and young elementary school readers
Anyone looking for a way to discuss fears―especially a fear of the dark―with kids

Editor review

1 review

Cozy and Spooky Comic with an Adorable Tortoise

April 19, 2026 (Updated: July 01, 2026)

Overall rating

4.8

Plot

4.0

Characters

5.0

Writing Style

5.0

Illustrations/Photos (if applicable)

5.0

A vivid, cozy and powerful comic about a tortoise who is afraid of the dark and a broader metaphor for how it feels to cope with constant anxiety. I absolutely adore Mabel, this scarf-wearing, tea-drinking tortoise who can't even take comfort in her own shell be cause of the darkness. With pretty minimal text, this book effectively portrays how an initially small fear can turn into a constant burden that keeps one from enjoying daily life, and it takes kind friendship and physical and mental support to overcome it. Mabel is anxious for a long time, and this story isn't afraid to sit in that disquiet.

Each panel is a gorgeous depiction of nature, from sweeping sunsets, to gloomy walks in the rain, to charming gatherings of forest critters. And let's not forget the spooky ones. Mabel is haunted by the sounds of foxes and other predators in the night, as well as the shadows, which twist and grown into monstrous forms.

Pick this up for a story of adorable critters, overcoming anxiety, and two friends who are sure to have many adventures ahead.