Ileana Surducan‘s The Lost Sunday is an Eisner-nominated fairy tale story that explores burnout and is appropriate for all ages. After all, it doesn’t matter how old you are, everyone is susceptible to burnout. Child burnout is a “growing concern,” and “gifted children” are particularly at risk. Thus, it’s important to educate kids and their families about the signs and symptoms of burnout—and nothing seems more approachable to me than exploring this through a fairy tale told via the medium of comics, a medium that research shows is especially successful in helping people understand complex topics.
The Beat is excited to reveal that Oni Press has acquired The Lost Sunday as part of its 2025 lineup, along with an exclusive preview of the graphic novel. This Eisner Award-nominated story beautifully illustrates the importance of carving out free time in our fast-paced lives, and Oni is bringing it to English-speaking audiences for the first time.
“I hope children will be delighted by this colorful journey into a land of magic, filled with whimsical creatures, strange trials, and lessons about kindness to all, yourself included,” said Surducan when Oni announced the English-language adaptation of the book in October 2024. “And I hope grown-ups might see a story that shines a light on a very present-day problem—the quest for free time—that offers a glimpse of hope: to strike the perfect, delicate balance between work and relaxation.”
Drawing inspiration from timeless folklore and enchanting fairy tales, The Lost Sunday casts a spell on a modern-day issue: the impact of burnout and the vital role of leisure in our lives. The official logline reads:
Nina lives in a dusty town, haunted by the six angry wolves of the week—Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. Each day brings never-ending chores and drudgery. Legend speaks of a seventh day to rest—Sunday—but everybody knows an evil witch stole it and keeps it locked away. When Nina finally says enough is enough, she sets out on an ambitious quest, but will she be able to vanquish the witch and bring back the lost Sunday?
Check out the exclusive extended excerpt from the enchanting, whimsical modern fairytale, The Lost Sunday, below:
Perfect for both kids and adults, you can find The Lost Sunday available in comic shops and bookstores everywhere starting June 2025! Learn more about how to order your copy at Simon & Schuster, which has a distribution deal with Oni Press.<
