Sword and Backpack: The Three Companions

Embark on an epic journey with three unlikely companions in this rousing tale of friendship and adventure in book one of a fast-paced, action-packed middle grade fantasy trilogy.

Calling all young Mages, Rogues, and Knights—grab your swords, grab your backpacks, the Grand Age of Adventure is…over. It's over.

In the once-blazing city of Lanternport, the College of the Three Companions was an esteemed institution, but now, for nearly a century, it's stood abandoned. Elsewhere in the city, young Archivist Apprentice Ehmett is fascinated by the College and is determined to discover what knowledge has been lost behind its walls. By chance, or more likely by fate, Ehmett's solo mission to infiltrate the school soon becomes a team endeavor when he is joined by Barten, a sneaky crook with a knack for lock picking, and Kellis, a skilled warrior determined to carry on her family legacy of sword wielding.

After unknowingly binding themselves together, Ehmett, Barten, and Kellis must embark on their Wanderyear—a months-long "study abroad" journey that will take them away from Lanternport and into a world filled with magical creatures and ancient lore, on a quest to revive their city's lost spark.

Friendship and the promise of exciting times of old await in this thrilling first book of a fantasy trilogy. Perhaps the Grand Age of Adventure is just beginning…

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