In early October, Mad Cave’s young adult imprint, Maverick, announced a civic-minded graphic novel for spring 2025. Student Government is co-written by Dave Justus and Lilah Sturges, with art by Joe Eisma.
The book takes place at the second-oldest university in the U.S., where four teens on the interim student government attempt to save the school from demolition through a charter loophole. They face enormous, mounting pressure and outright hostility from the Board of Regents and on campus. But it’s not all bad… right?
Today, The Beat can exclusively reveal some of the book’s backmatter: a Voting Guide, just in time for the 2024 U.S. presidential election.
“Although Student Government is, above all, a comedy, the story hinges on a vote… and voting is a serious topic. Which means it can seem incredibly intimidating, if you’re newly eligible to vote or it’s on your near horizon,” said Justus in a statement to The Beat. “But it shouldn’t be daunting; it should be empowering! That’s why, when Maverick suggested including a Voters’ Guide in the graphic novel’s supplemental materials, we leapt at the opportunity. It’s such an inspired way to bring the political passion of the characters—especially our heroine, Parker—into the real world.
“Voting really is one of the most direct means we have in this country to make our voices heard on the issues that matter to us. And I know how tempting it is to think, ‘My vote doesn’t really matter. How much difference could a single, individual vote actually make?’” Justus continued. “I’d tell you to ask Donna Howard, a member of the Texas House who represents my district here in Austin. In 2010, she kept her seat by an official count of just 12 votes—and one hearing had her by a margin as narrow as four.
“Every vote is important, even crucial… just like you are. You deserve an equal say in the future you want to see. And nothing would make the Student Government team feel more honored than if this Voters’ Guide were the first step on your road to the voting booth,” Justus concluded.
Check out the guide and the Student Government cover art below.
Student Government will be available everywhere books are sold on March 11, 2025. Pre-orders are available now.
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