Description
Hupo is on a mission to restore dreams and wonder to his home once again, before the Wallower destroys everything in this story about being yourself even if you're told you're "too much" and finding joy in the darkest of places.
About the Author
Billy Partridge grew up in Nottingham, surrounded by a family of painters, designers and wood carvers. After spending his early years doodling peculiar creatures and writing short stories and poems, he decided to study illustration at Leeds Arts University, where he graduated with a first class honours degree. He was the recipient of a merit in 3x3 magazine's 2022 illustration awards, and has been nominated for a V&A illustration award. At the heart of his work is a fascination with the weird and wonderful, intriguing characters and mystical worlds.
Reviews
Young or old, fans of the fantastical worlds of Miyazaki or the moody charm of Over the Garden Wall will be captivated by this graphic novel about staying true to yourself "whatever the weather." Hupo loves to talk about his favorite explorer, but nobody wants to listen. Then, dark creatures descend on the town, stealing their wonder and Hupo's best friend. Hupo's unabashed joy may be the only thing that can save them-if he can hold on to it. -- Danielle Ballantyne * Foreword STARRED Review *
Such a beautiful, poignant and funny book. -- Joe Todd-Stanton * Author of Brownstone's Mythical Collection *
A must-read, bursting at the seams with fantastical creatures and characters. -- Tim Probert * author of Lightfall *
Flying Eye's key release for March is this magical tale, about someone who is on a mission to restore dreams and wonder to his home once again, before the Wallower destroys everything in its path. -- Charlotte Eyre * The Bookseller Children's Previews - March 2025 *
This fun, adventurous book teaches you the value of always being true to yourself. With illustrations that make you laugh and pause to appreciate the scenery; this story is perfect for young and old graphic novel lovers. -- Sarah Dennis at Mostly Books * Gardners Bookseller's Circle Reviews *
Yet another gorgeous graphic novel published by Flying Eye Books! This one tells the story of Hupo and his best friend the Aletha in the mountains of Yip as a mysterious fog starts spreading across their town... With stunning illustrations, a beautiful colour palette and whimsical characters, this book holds a very powerful message! This is a story about the importance of being yourself and celebrating who you are without shame. As the Great Humdingo once said: "Never ever, whatever the weather be anything but yourself!" I couldn't get enough of Hupo and I would strongly advise you to pick up your copy as soon as possible! A perfect read for fans of Hilda and Lightfall! -- Elise at Bristol Galleries * Waterstones Bookseller Review *
I absolute adore this book! With illustrations reminiscent of Joe Todd-Stanton and Luke Pearson, this is such a gorgeously illustrated story full of wondrous humour and charming characters! Would highly recommend to anyone looking for a wonderful new children's adventure story, especially fans of the Hilda series. -- Jonathan * Waterstones Bookseller Review *
This was awesome! The art style reminds me of Hilda a little bit, so I think it would appeal to fans of Luke Pearson's work. Hupo is a fantastic story about a half-dog-rabbit and his friend the Aletha who embark on an unintended adventure to save the town of Yorger from The Wallower. Hupo is full of wonder and just wants to share what he's learned with the townsfolk but often finds that they are annoyed by his presence. As a character, Hupo and his struggles resonated with me in a way I really didn't expect - and, drew quite an emotional response from me! I too, have always and still do, love learning, have silly facts for all sorts and find wonder in the smallest things. Like Hupo, I have also been called annoying or told that I'm too much for being excited about things others don't think are important. The message at the heart of Hupo is to be you, even when others are unkind, and to make sure that you don't lose yourself and start hurting others in the same way that they have hurt you. Whether you're reading this book as an adult or a child, the message is important and it's really nice to read something so encouraging which asks you to embrace your quirks and keep that sense of wonder alive. Hupo is best summed up in the words of the great adventurer Humdingo, 'Never ever, whatever the weather, be anything but yourself'. -- Rachael Samson * Waterstones Bookseller Review *
Hupo is a very sweet rabbit/dog creature who just wants to share his passions with those around him. The townspeople seem pretty mean to him, though most readers can probably think of a similar situation they have experienced. I read this character as a neurodivergent kid who wants to share his knowledge about his favorite topic. As such, I love that Hupo's spirit is never crushed and those around him come to appreciate him without the character having to change to please others. The illustrations are very reminiscent of the Studio Ghibli style (think movies like Kiki's Delivery Service or Totoro). The images look like they were pulled from an animated film, and were probably made digitally. All the creatures are interesting to look at and show very expressive emotions. -- Nicole Guerra-Coon * Youth Services Book Review *
...bursting with colour and dynamic action * SLJ - Fiction Series Made Simple *
Book Information
ISBN 9781838744106
Author Billy Partridge
Format Paperback
Page Count 64
Imprint Flying Eye Books
Publisher Flying Eye Books