The Hardcover of IYANWA Has Arrived and It's Beautiful

IYANWA front cover

IYANWA front cover hardcover case

It's hard to describe the journey that this story has been on, it's been a major portion of my life, in fact, so seeing it packaged in this way kind of takes my breath away. It's funny, when you create something, along the way you knock off milestones, find love, lose love, hope for more, fail miserably. This week, I received the hardcover edition of IYANWA, and I can honestly say... it’s all of that and it's more beautiful than I imagined.

IYANWA is my debut middle-grade fantasy adventure about a stubbornly brave girl who sets out on a mysterious island journey to find her missing brother. The hardcover brings this story to life and will sit humbly on my shelf between Coraline and The Girl Who Drank the Moon.

IYANWA back cover hardcover case

✨ What Makes This Hardcover Edition Special?

I've added some bonus content in here, which I worked on throughout the writing process. I wanted to add it in here so anyone who might be interested in learning how IYANWA came to be, well, the answer is right at the back...

Here’s what you’ll find inside:

• A Personal Note to the Reader

  A note of congratulations to you, and your journey.

• Behind-the-Scenes Sketches

  I’ve included some of my early drawings that helped shape the island of Iyanwa and its magical secrets. If you love seeing the creative process, you’ll find some fun moments.

• A Sneak Peek at Book Two

  Yes—you read that right. The first chapter of the sequel is included at the end. It’s early days, but I couldn’t resist giving you a glimpse into what’s next for Izzy, Elliot, and the world that’s still unfolding.

  
  

IYANWA - special content - The Making of IYANWA

📚 Why This Book Is Perfect for Middle-Grade Readers

If you're a parent, teacher, or librarian looking for a middle-grade book that balances adventure with heart, IYANWA is a great fit. It’s best suited for readers ages 9–12, especially those who enjoy:

• Magical realism with real emotional stakes

• A brave but relatable heroine

• Mysterious islands, ghostly guides, and plushies who might be more than they seem

• Themes of friendship, courage, and finding your way when the world feels against you

  
  

IYANWA - special content - Early Sketches - Building Environments

💬 Lastly

Seeing IYANWA in hardcover feels like a milestone. A bit surreal. A bit full-circle. Thank you for reading, sharing, and believing in this story. I hope the hardcover finds its way into hands that need it, and that the story inside feels relevant to the ones who open it.

If you'd like to grab a copy of the hardcover, it's now available at all good book stores.

Locquis Tuta Miara-Kin

CJ Biggin

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