Michael Rosen's Sticky McStickstick: The Friend Who Helped Me Walk Again

Told with honesty and good humor, this moving picture book recounts beloved author Michael Rosen’s recovery from Covid.

After being admitted to the hospital in 2020 for treatment of Covid, Michael Rosen had to learn to walk again. With the help of the hospital staff, he began the slow steps to recovery—rolling through corridors in a wheelchair, taking tiny steps with a walker, and navigating the parallel bars at the gym. But it was the walking stick he named Sticky McStickstick that helped him take the most important steps of all: back to his home and the love of his family. The former British Children’s Laureate offers a personal and openhearted account, with whimsical illustrations by Tony Ross adding a note of levity as they relay the comedy in Rosen’s reluctance and failed attempts. It’s a story of perseverance and hope told in a way that children can understand, conveying reassurance and the importance of overcoming fear—while learning to accept help.

Standard and Primary covers are widely available through general retailers. They often have higher print runs and can be cheaper, especially during sales.

In contrast, Direct Market (DM) and variant covers are primarily sold in comic shops. DM editions tend to have more limited availability and may be more valuable to collectors.

The main differences lie in artwork style, availability, price, and collector appeal. Ultimately, the choice between standard and variant covers depends on personal preference, budget, and individual collecting goals.

Comic book enthusiasts have various formats to choose from when collecting their favorite stories.
Here's a brief overview of the main types:

Omnibus

• Large, hardcover collections
• Usually contain complete runs or extensive story arcs
• Typically 800-1000+ pages
• Higher price point, often €100-€150

Oversized Hardcover (OHC)

• Similar dimensions to omnibus, but thinner
• Collect shorter runs or story arcs
• Usually 300-600 pages
• Priced between €30-€50

Hardcover (HC)

• Standard-sized hardcover books
• Collect 6-12 issues typically
• Similar dimensions to single issues, but with a hard cover
• Priced around €25-€35

Trade Paperback (TP)

• Softcover collections
• Standard comic book size
• Usually collect 4-6 issues
• Most affordable option, typically €15-€25

Other Formats

• Absolute Editions: Oversized, deluxe hardcovers (mainly DC Comics)
• Compendiums: Massive paperback collections
• Graphic Novels (OGN/GN): Original stories not previously released as single issues

The choice between these formats often depends on personal preference, budget, and collecting goals. Omnibus and OHC editions offer larger artwork and more content but at a higher price, while TPs provide a more affordable way to collect complete story arcs