Mabel Makes (^Up) a Friend: A Graphic Novel -- Cyndi Marko, Hardcover

Join Mabel and her made-up elephant companion, Mr. E, as they navigate the joys and challenges of second grade in this charming young graphic novel where imagination and reality blend in an adventure of friendship and discovery!

This heartwarming tale follows Mabel, a creative second grader who finds herself being followed by an imaginary elephant.

As Mabel navigates the challenges of feeling left out and adjusting to a new class at school without her best friends, she encounters an unexpected companion--Mr. Elephant, or "Mr. E," who quickly becomes her secret confidant, joining her in handling the ups and downs of everyday life.

Young readers will be captivated by the vibrant illustrations that bring Mabel's inner world to life, complete with an elephant that's a champion at hide-and-seek and has a passion for peanut butter.

This graphic novel is an ode to the magic of childhood and the importance of friendship--both real and imagined. With a mix of fiction and nonfiction elements, readers will learn alongside Mabel about plant biology, the value of creativity, and the beauty of accepting oneself, quirks and all.

Author: Cyndi Marko
Publisher: Penguin Workshop
Published: 08/26/2025
Pages: 96
Binding Type: Hardcover
Weight: 1.25lbs
ISBN: 9780593752883
Audience: Ages 4-8

Review Citation(s):
Kirkus Reviews 06/01/2025

About the Author
Cyndi Marko is the author-illustrator of the award-winning Kung Pow Chicken early chapter book series; the graphic novel chapter books This Little Piggy: An Owner's Manual and Boo! Hiss!; the middle grade graphic novel series Sloth Sleuth; and her debut picture book, Gilly's Monster Trap. She currently lives in Edmonton, Canada, with her quiet kids and noisy cats. Learn more at CyndiMarko.com.