This month, Oni Press and Kate Wheeler are letting readers know that we all have ambitions and self-doubts–royal and commoner alike–but we also all have the power to become the person we want to be.
Goat Magic cover
In her upcoming graphic novel Goat Magic, Wheeler tells the tale of Trill, a goat herder with an ability to speak with her flock but longs for something more. Princess Alya, on the other hand, doubts her own potential as future ruler of Capeya. Their lives collide when Alya is cursed to transform into a goat each sunrise and looks for protection with the goats under Trill’s care. I’ve read the book and it’s a beautiful mix of adventure, romance, intrigue, and a story about deciding who you are and who you want to be.
Ahead of the book’s release, FreakSugar has an exclusive look at a Spotify playlist Wheeler put together for this gorgeous and resonating queer middle grade fantasy! Titled “Goat Magic,” the playlist includes songs from artists such as Florence + The Machine, The Paper Kites, The Oh Hellos, and more. Check out the full list of songs here and listed below!
“Creektime” by Odetta Hartman
“Runaway” by AURORA
“Dear Wormwood” by The Oh Hellos
“For Tonight” by Elephant Sessions
“Redwood Tree” by Jamie Drake
“I’m Not Your Hero” by Tegan and Sara
“Constellations” by The Oh Hellos
“Fire in the Empire” by William Crighton
“Realms” by Sarah Kinsley
“Long Time Travelin'” by Anna & Elizabeth
“Running with the Wolves” by AURORA
“Bitter Water” by The Oh Hellos
“My Ego Dies at the End” by Jensen McRae
“Damage Gets Done” by Hozier, featuring Brandi Carlile
“Pierre” by Ryn Weaver
“Apple Tree” by AURORA
“Help Me to Feel Again” by Judah & the Lion
“King” by Florence + The Machine
“Wolf” by First Aid Kit
“Willow Tree March” by The Paper Kites
“Beginning, Becoming” by Christopher Stracey
“Be Free” by Ny Oh, Qazi & Qazi
“Like the Dawn” by The Oh Hellos
“Vampire Weeknight” by Jenny Owen Youngs
“Wolves of the Revolution” by The Arcadian Wild
“Ceili” by Mermaid Chunky
“Sublime” by Sarah Kinsley
“Disposable Camera” by Anna Tivel
“Things Will Get Better” by Vian Izak
Goat Magic goes on sale August 19, 2025, from Oni Press.
From the official press release about the book:
Oni Press, the multiple Eisner and Harvey Award-winning publisher of groundbreaking comics and graphic novels since 1997, is proud to unveil the stunning new graphic novel Goat Magic! From cartoonist Kate Wheeler (Team Trash: A Time Traveler’s Guide to Sustainability), who has been published by The Washington Post, NPR, and The Nib, Goat Magic is the magical must read of 2025.
“Goat Magic is a thrilling fantasy adventure that, at its heart, is about becoming the person you want to be rather than what’s expected of you,” said writer and illustrator Kate Wheeler. “The story will appeal to mischief makers and risk takers (aka big Goat energy) as well as readers with a soft spot for queer romance.”
Next summer, join Trill, a spirited goat herder with a unique ability to communicate with her flock, who yearns for a life beyond mountain pastures. Her “goat magic” feels common compared to the sorcery taught in the city’s prestigious magic schools, which are off-limits to her. Meanwhile, Princess Alya, known as the “Ordinary Princess” and heir to the kingdom of Capeya, doubts her own royal potential.
Their worlds collide when an assassination attempt on the queen leaves Alya cursed to transform into a black goat each sunrise. Seeking refuge in Trill’s goat herd, Alya discovers her new friend’s hidden talent is her only hope to break the spell. Together, they embark on a perilous journey back to the castle, facing treacherous foes and uncovering a web of betrayal and rebellion.
As Alya battles to reclaim her throne and restore order to Capeya, the girls discover a deep connection, their shared experiences forging an unbreakable bond. When Alya comes face to face with the ones who betrayed her, will she have what it takes to take back the crown and rule an unstable kingdom? Will Trill find confidence in her magic and the growing affection she has for her friend?
With fast-paced action, enchanting magic, and a budding romance, Goat Magic is a captivating novel perfect for fans of fantasy adventure.
“Goat Magic is the book I wish I could’ve read when I was younger,” said Senior Editor Grace Scheipeter. “It’s got everything I love in a story: magic spells, treacherous quests, daring adventure, and truly captivating characters. Not to mention hundreds of pages full of adorable goats. I’m thrilled for readers to finally escape into the kingdom of Capeya alongside Trill and Alya next August. After you read, you’ll likely want to learn magic, visit a goat farm, or embark on a journey to fight against corruption…maybe all three!”
Look for Goat Magic in comic shops and bookstores August 2025!