Kids Comics Pitchfest 2026 Showcase

For an Unknown Friend

In February 1949, the French Gratitude Train crossed the Atlantic Ocean, filled with thousands of presents sent by the People of France expressing their thanks to the People of the United States after the war. This story follows one gift and the girl, Helene, who sent it.
Born in Lyon, Helene grew up in a city occupied by the Nazis. As an infant, her Papa is taken to a prisoner of war camp. Then, Helene’s Mama gifts her a toy dog, Lou Lou, for courage.
In 1944, Lyon is liberated, and Helene’s Papa comes home. Soon after, Helene learns of the Gratitude Train and wants to express the deep gratitude she feels by donating a gift to the cause. But nothing seems good enough until she finds the strength to send her war-torn friend, Lou Lou.

My Why:

I was first introduced to Helene while researching the French Gratitude Train for a documentary over 30 years ago. I discovered a letter from Helene to her “unknown friend,” and became obsessed with her story and her gratitude. Though I originally sought to write a picture book, I eventually decided a graphic novel was more fitting for the narrative.
Research continued in Lyon, France, where I visited the Resistance and Deportation History Center as well as the apartment where Helene’s family lived.
But sadly, lately I’ve been reflecting on how Helene’s story parallels our present reality in America, where our neighbors are disappearing each day, and I’m starting to understand the necessity of resistance in a way I never thought I could.

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