Scholastic is bringing literature to kids in book deserts… and they’re getting some help from some of Dav Pilkey‘s most beloved creations, including Dog Man and Captain Underpants. 100 custom-designed Little Free Libraries featuring Pikley’s beloved characters will be installed nationwide in public libraries, schools and communities located in book deserts.
The initiative was launched on Tuesday, April 7th, 2026, in conjunction with the release of Captan Underpants: The Epic First Manga, available now at a bookstore and/or public library near you. Plus, if you’re lucky, you can will one of 200 copies of The Epic First Manga in a special promotional contest.
Themed Little Free Libraries
The 100 Little Free Libraries, which are decorated with a plethora of Pilkey’s characters, were funded by Pilkey himself. Each will come stocked with a selection of kid-friendly reading options, including copies of The Epic First Manga.
In a quote included in the press release from Scholastic, Pilkey said:
“Every child deserves access to books. With this initiative, we hope to spark curiosity, imagination, and a lifelong love of reading. I’m truly grateful to all the librarians, teachers, reading specialists and volunteers, and the teams at Little Free Library and Scholastic who dedicate themselves to make literacy their mission.”
An additional quote from Little Free Library’s CEO Daniel Gumnit was also included:
“Dav Pilkey’s stories have inspired millions of kids to fall in love with reading. Together with Pilkey and Scholastic, we’re turning that inspiration into action—placing books directly into communities and inviting kids to discover the joy of reading right outside their doors. By combining Pilkey’s signature humor with a shared commitment to literacy, Little Free Library and Scholastic are helping ensure that more kids can discover the transformative power of books. As these colorful libraries appear in neighborhoods across the country, they stand as lasting symbols of imagination, access, and the simple joy of reading—inviting kids everywhere to open a book, laugh out loud, and keep coming back for more.”
The Epic First Manga Giveaway
The Epic First Manga is written by Pilkey, who adapted the story from his own wildly successful graphic novel, and is illustrated by manga artist Motojiro. To celebrate the release of the newest Pilkey production, Scholastic is giving away 200 copies of the new book. To enter to win one for yourself and/or your organization, simply click here. And do please note that public libraries and schools will be prioritized in the giveaway.
Have you gotten your hands on a copy of Captain Underpants: The Epic First Manga yet? Are you a frequent visitor to your local Little Free Library? Comics Beat wants to hear from you! Be sure and let us know, either here in the comment section or over on social media.
Like this:
Loading…
