Start your engines, grab your best pink outfit, and turn the reading lamp on!
Mattel is teaming up with TOKYOPOP for a series of original graphic novels inspired by the beloved Barbie and Hot Wheels toy lines. The new manga-style stories are for kids ages 8 and up, so a new generation of fans can read, race, and rejoice with these legendary toys.Â
Debuting in 2026, the first of these titles will include a Western-inspired manga series based on Hot Wheels and new stories featuring fan-favorite Barbie characters. Each graphic novel showcases bold, original artwork and exciting stories that bring the colorful world of Mattel to life! As kids flip through the pages, they will discover cultural art styles, a renewed love for reading, and a fun new way to engage with their favorite toys like never before.Â
This is not the first time Mattel’s iconic brands have been featured in print comics, and it won’t be the last. Mattel recently opened its own publishing imprint, so plenty more toy-inspired stories are on the way!
The TOKYOPOP graphic novels will hit stores next year — until then, there are plenty of Barbie and Hot Wheels toy collections to add to playtime.
