You Are Not Alone

Powerful and uplifting, this lyrical story from an acclaimed illustrator follows a solitary tree through the patient, wondrous ways nature endures—reminding readers that life always finds a way to begin again.

Where a great forest once grew, only one tree remains, perched on a quiet cliff overlooking the sea. Its roots reach deep into the soil and it whispers to the Earth, “Am I alone?” The Earth listens and answers. She stirs the grasses, ripples the waves, and sends a powerful wind to carry seeds through the air. Thunder rolls, rain falls, and tiny sprouts begin to push through the damp ground.

Little by little, flowers bloom, bees hum and build, and small animals make their homes among the roots and branches. When years have passed and life has returned to the cliffside, the tree offers the Earth a loving “Thank you,” knowing it is no longer alone.

In her first picture book as author and illustrator, Kate Gardiner crafts a story that is both timeless and profoundly aware. Readers will be drawn to its gentle rhythms and unfolding sense of wonder, discovering in it a quiet reflection on how hope and life take root again, even after loss.

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