New recruit to Arena Illustration Billy Partridge's amazing debut graphic novel, Hupo and the Wonder Thief is published this month by Flying Eye Books. Hupo is on a mission to restore dreams and wonder to his home once again, before the Wallower destroys everything...
For fans of magical worlds, Moomins and Studio Ghibli, this is the graphic novel for you! Hupo and the Wonder Thief will whisk you off to a whimsical world packed with adventure. The overriding message is that of being yourself even if you're told you're ‘too much’. It's a lesson in embracing emotions, taking on trials you might not think you’re brave enough for, and most of all treasuring your friends.
Hupo loves reading and telling stories and he dreams of adventure. The Aletha is Hupo's greatest friend, an excellent listener and loves sprouts! The Wallower, also known as 'The Dark One', rules over the woods and has eyes and ears EVERYWHERE!
Hupo and the Aletha love to amble through the bustling streets of their city, talking to shopkeepers and recounting tales of their favourite adventurer, the Great Humdingo — much to the annoyance of everyone around them. But when mysterious, zombifying mists creep into town and the Aletha is captured by a sinister force in the mountains, Hupo’s on a mission to set everything to rights… But can he hold onto who he is when everything around him seems so terrible? Can he find joy in the darkest of places?
Creator Billy Partridge's magical visual language and captivating story is about imagination, adventure, and having the courage to be yourself, even if you have a big personality.
"Never ever, whatever the weather, be anything but yourself!"
See more of Billy's wonderful interior illustrations from Hupo and The Wonder Thief and explore the rest of his online portfolio.
For more information regarding collaborating with Billy or any of our other amazing artists please do get in touch HERE and please sign up to our weekly newsletter for more information about our artists and their latest projects, events and awards.
