Papercutz Announces ‘The Stone Of Shiro: The Fall Of Shiro’ For Summer 2026
by Brendan M. Allen
Some adventures begin loudly. Others begin quietly and change everything.
Papercutz, the kids imprint of Mad Cave Studios, has announced The Stone Of Shiro: The Fall Of Shiro. The forthcoming middle-grade graphic novel debut from writer Sue Ruffle is illustrated by Stefano Spaziani with letters by 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. It’s 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 serve 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!
“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,” said Ruffle. “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 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.”
The Stone of Shiro: The Fall of Shiro will be available in paperback ($12.99, ISBN 9781545826829) and hardcover ($17.99, ISBN 9781545826836) formats, both released on June 30th, 2026. It is now available for preorder through comic retailers, bookstores, and directly from Papercutz.
