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by Jason M. Burns (Author), Megan Nowak (Illustrator)
Two teens facing depression find unexpected paths to healing--one through tabletop gaming, the other through creative expression--in this dual-story manga developed with Mayo Clinic expertise.
Depression can feel isolating, especially for young people who may not yet have the tools to understand or express what they're going through. In this powerful manga, readers meet Zac, a student-athlete sidelined by injury and A'Ja, a preteen navigating the emotional fallout of her parents' divorce. Both are struggling with sadness, disconnection, and self-blame--until a mysterious cat and a surprising turn of events help them discover new ways to cope. Each story story models real, evidence-based strategies for managing depression, including seeking community, reframing expectations, and communicating emotions in creative ways. Created in collaboration with Mayo Clinic pediatric psychologist Dr. Abigail Matthews, the book includes discussion questions, practical coping tools, and links to mental health resources. It's ideal for classrooms, therapy settings, or any young reader who needs to know they're not alone. Blending compelling manga storytelling with evidence-based strategies created in partnership with Mayo Clinic pediatric psychologist Dr. Abigail Matthews, Manga Medicine equips young readers with empowering tools to support emotional well-being. Mayo Clinic Press Kids creates empowering health and wellness content in partnership with pediatric experts. Proceeds from the sale of every book go to benefit important medical research and education at Mayo Clinic.Author Biography
Jason M. Burns has had a successful career in the comic book industry as a content creator, writer, and editor. In addition, he has authored two original novels and multiple film and television projects. He lives in Massachusetts with his wife, two children, and a trio of rescue dogs.
Ash Stryker is a cartoonist and caricature artist based out of Minneapolis. When she isn't drawing, she's doting on her two cats and reading manga. Dr. Abigail Matthews, Ph.D., is a clinical psychologist and the Program Director of the Pediatric Mood Program at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota. She specializes in evidence-based care for children and adolescents with depression and their families. She is also an expert in pediatric eating disorders treatment and research.
Number of Pages: 48
Dimensions: 0.3 x 7.7 x 5.3 IN
Publication Date: May 05, 2026
