Oni Press announced the release of the first-ever English-language editions of Mika and the Howler and Mika and the Gurgler, a two-volume early-reader series from award-winning Polish writer Agata Loth-Ignaciuk (How to Reach the Earth’s Poles in One Year) and illustrator Berenika Kołomycka, creator of the critically acclaimed Tiny Fox and Great Boar series from Oni Press. Perfect for the youngest of readers, the Mika series encourages bravery in the face of the unknown, as household appliances take on new life! A howling dust-bunny-eating vacuum creature is no match for Mika in the July-releasing Mika and the Howler and a spinning, sudsing washing machine monster won’t keep Mika from saving her stuffed animal friends in the December-releasing sequel Mika and the Gurgler. Readers of all ages will find themselves immersed in Mika’s world of delightful discovery!
Mika is a young explorer who faces familiar-yet-not-fully known objects and obstacles around her house. Today’s newest challenge? The “howler” that roams her living room and hallways sucking up dust bunnies – and even her socks! But the howler isn’t as dangerous as it appears, and young Mika is soon brave enough to face it. The first in the series of books for the youngest comics readers, enjoy the sweet, simple, and delightful Mika and the Howler.
Mika’s adventures continue in Mika and the Gurgler! The “gurgler” spins, spews, whirrs, beeps, and even swallows things whole! But the gurgler isn’t as scary as it appears. With the help of her friends, Mika is able to rescue her frog from the malicious washing machine and learn that not everything is as scary as it may seem.
“Agata’s clever writing and Berenika’s gorgeous artwork struck me the moment I read these adorable books. They are so charming and playful!” says Senior Editor Grace Scheipeter. “I hope parents and children alike will enjoy seeing the world through Mika’s eyes.”
“Observing little kids, especially my kids, and how they dealt with new challenges and fears was key to creating Mika’s enthusiastic and imaginative character,” says writer Agata Loth-Ignaciuk. “I hope Mika will surprise you with her inventiveness, initiative, and activity. She’s an explorer and defender, and she always tries to help her family and friends. Sometimes it ends up being quite a mess, but she does her best! I’m really looking forward to seeing how Mika will cope in each new environment and among new young readers. I’m keeping my fingers crossed for her.”
Mika and the Howler will be available in hardcover for a list price of $14.99 at retailers everywhere on July 19, 2023. Mika and the Gurgler will be available in hardcover for a list price of $14.99 at retailers everywhere on December 5, 2023.
