Epilectra, A Graphic Novel Series

Problem

Author and creator of Epilectra, The Graphic Novel Series, Sue Seserman, came to ShuBu Creative with the brilliant concept of a team of superheroes with disabilities who were making the world a better place. The script was written and the illustrations were hand-drawn by Sue herself. She presented it to ShuBu in a spiral-bound notebook. Sue and her husband, Doug, a seasoned corporate marketing professional, knew this book had a promising future and a vital message to spread. First, however, they wanted help getting it launched and looking professional and then wanted marketing and PR support after it was published. 

Solution

First, we tackled the brand. We worked with the author, Sue Seserman, to narrow down the key brand pillars of her novel and visually develop the characters in a digitized way. We solidified a clear mission, vision and values as well as a tagline: Transforming Disability into Superability. We created a logo, color palate, fonts and unique visual identity.

We determined how to position the book to preteens, parents, and loved ones of those with disabilities as “edutainment” as well as inspiring. We worked with Sue to hire an illustrator that fit the needs, vision, and style of the book. Once we found the right designer, we went to work to bring the characters and brand to life.

We developed the characters, the storyboards, and the brand messaging pillars. Once we determined the characters and the brand messaging, we created a website, media kit and other marketing materials like business cards and talking points to bring to conferences and networking events. At the same time, we worked on building a social media presence, followers and general disability awareness. 

We implemented an ongoing monthly e-newsletter and blog to Sue’s growing database of contacts to keep audiences engaged while we waited for the book to publish.

After three years of hard work, Epilectra was published in 2024! We strategically began a PR campaign leading up to the launch in order to have credibility when the book was released. We executed heavy media outreach 6-months prior to the release knowing that coverage would happen closer to book launch.

We also increased our social media presence during this 6-months time-period, layering in more content, reels, stories and more static posts. We continued the monthly blog and newsletter, but added in more email marketing in addition to the monthly e-newsletter. Additionally, Sue did speaking engagements during this time and anything to gain more exposure. At the time of the book release, we already had buzz. Finally, we hosted a book launch party and celebrated with friends, family and industry contacts.

Impact

Through ShuBu’s partnership, PR, branding and marketing efforts the graphic novel received national and local attention. Social media audiences grew from zero to thousands of followers on Linkedin, FB, Instagram and Twitter. The novel received endorsements from associations such as the National Epilepsy Foundation, Invisible Disabilities Association and The Defeating Epilepsy Foundation, and was covered in numerous media outlets including but not limited to: Denver’s prestigious 5280 Magazine, Denver’s Fox31, 9News, Westword, Colorado Public Radio, The Daily Camera, Chicago’s Midwest Book Review, Pittsburgh, The Gazette, and more! The novel’s sales continue to slowly increase as times goes on and is available via Amazon and other online retailers such as Barnes & Nobles.