We all know words are what make books a special magic all on their own – but what happens when you throw pictures into the mix? Double. The. Magic. That’s what we found the minute we opened Original Fake, an illustrated novel that’s a blend of sibling rivalry, vengeance, and a street-art act of war.

Frankie Neumann is an introvert who wants to be an artist, and the illustrations in the book transport you right there as he runs errands for Uncle Epic, a legendary anonymous street artist who’s his absolute idol. Read on to see some of the original artwork inside Original Fake that totally convinced us: the world needs more illustrated novels!

Frankie driving Rory and David around – they’re the ones who get him involved with Uncle Epic in the first place.

Street art in the act!

Oh by the way, that’s Donna Russell. She’s a sculpture, sort of – Frankie calls her his “monster mash-up safe person,” and she’s definitely a character all on her own.

How to sum up Frankie’s relationship with his sister Lou? A next-level sibling rivalry.

Ever borrowed a bunch of mannequin parts in the name of revenge?

Start reading Original Fake!