The Number 7 / The Flower Petal

Two young people find unexpected paths to healing-one through a new friend and one through a creative hobby-in this dual-story manga developed with Mayo Clinic expertise.

Grief can feel overwhelming, especially for young people navigating loss for the first time. In this beautifully illustrated manga, readers are introduced to Yariel and Winnie-two tweens grappling with very different but equally powerful experiences of grief. Yariel learns to cope through positive reframing, finding comfort in memories and choosing to honor his dog’s legacy by helping others. Winnie, on the other hand, learns to refocus her perspective, realizing that while her grandmother’s declining health has changed their relationship, love and connection remain. Developed in collaboration with Mayo Clinic pediatric psychologist Dr. Abigail Matthews, each narrative is paired with practical guidance on coping mechanisms, discussion questions, and curated resources for further support. Whether used in classrooms, therapy sessions, or at home, this book is a compassionate companion for any child learning to live with loss.

Blending compelling manga storytelling with evidence-based strategies created in partnership with Mayo Clinic pediatric psychologist Dr. Abigail Matthews, Manga Medicine equips young readers with empowering tools to support emotional well-being.

Mayo Clinic Press Kids creates empowering health and wellness content in partnership with pediatric experts. Proceeds from the sale of every book go to benefit important medical research and education at Mayo Clinic.

Author Biography

Jason M. Burns has had a successful career in the comic book industry as a content creator, writer, and editor. In addition, he has authored two original novels and multiple film and television projects. He lives in Massachusetts with his wife, two children, and a trio of rescue dogs.

Ash Stryker is a cartoonist and caricature artist based out of Minneapolis. When she isn’t drawing, she’s doting on her two cats and reading manga.

Dr. Abigail Matthews, Ph.D., is a clinical psychologist and the Program Director of the Pediatric Mood Program at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota. She specializes in evidence-based care for children and adolescents with depression and their families. She is also an expert in pediatric eating disorders treatment and research.