FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Caro Carrowack, an Illustrated Book by Damian Bradfield & Luis Mendo

Damian Bradfield, author of The Trust Manifesto and Algorithmic Reality, is back this time with Luis Mendo and a stellar new illustrated novel and audio book, CARO CARROWACK.

Where Damian’s previous books explored the erosion of trust in the digital age, advocating for a more ethical and responsible internet, this new book is a coming-of-age story about a girl raised by two devastatingly unloving parents. The book is illustrated by the renowned, Tokyo-based artist Luis Mendo. The audiobook version –spanning two 12 inch vinyls, a double album– is available too. Produced by BBC DJ and producer Gilles Peterson, featuring voice performances by Sir Stephen Fry, Geraldine James, Jayde Adams, Tawiah, Matt Kennard and Laura Aikman.

About Caro Carrowack

In a world where criticism and disdain shape her reality, Caro Carrowack resiliently charts her own course, driven by an unwavering desire for approval and the need to demonstrate her worth—not just to the world, but to the very parents who seem indifferent to her existence.

Set against the backdrops of San Francisco and Sicily in the 1940s and 50s, with a melancholic yet tongue-in-cheek tonality, Caro draws inspiration from many personal experiences. The story also draws parallels with the complex family dynamics observed in some of society’s most influential figures—including the Musks, the Sacklers, the Trumps, the Roys, and others—as the terrifying consequences of greed and megalomania continue to unfold among the world’s most powerful.

In Caro Carrowack, Damian and Luis masterfully weave a tale and pictures of resilience, self-discovery, wit, and the pursuit of worth in the face of adversity. Intended to speak to parents and young adults alike, everyone is invited to join Caro as she navigates the tumultuous waters of her own identity, her moral compass and seeking a place in a world that often feels indifferent.

Details

Caro Carrowack is published by FUPE and will have its Japanese launch at Dover Street Market Ginza on March 28, 2025.

About Damian Bradfield

Damian is an author, activist and entrepreneur. A true polymath with a focus on making the world a better place through creativity, Damian has launched several books and thought-provoking art projects that intersect creativity, technology and societal themes, such as Empty Day, an initiative encouraging digital disconnection to promote mental well-being, and Megalomaniacs, a creative card game challenging players to reflect on leadership traits and societal values. His first book The Trust Manifesto: What You Need To Do To Create A Better Internet, debating online privacy, trust, and big data, was published in 2019. His comic book Algorithmic Reality, which also urges the reader to consider and question who is in control of the internet, came out in 2023. In 2024 he launched his publishing company FUPE.

About Luis Mendo

After working as a magazine designer and creative director for 20 years in Europe, Luis Mendo packed a few belongings and moved to Japan, changing his career to drawing. His illustrations can be found on sites, magazines and advertising, but also in art galleries and clothing. Clients include Apple, Forbes, The Financial Times, The Guardian, The Times, Monocle, New York Times, New York magazine, Popeye Magazine, Ralph Lauren, Uniqlo, Washington Post, Wall Street Journal and Wired.
In 2023 Luis Mendo’s first graphic novel came out, titled “Tokyo y Yo” in Korean and Spanish. He sells the English ebook version on his website.

In 2024 Luis started his own membership platform called MundoMendo. There he publishes stories and comics that one day will be published on paper.

OTHER DETAILS

Copyright © 2025 Damian Bradfield & Luis Mendo

ISBN/EAN
978-90-834892-1-6

Published by FUPE

Text and original idea, producer
Damian Bradfield

Editorial design, illustrations and art
Luis Mendo

Publishing operations and production
Kris Latocha

1st edition March 2025 (Luxury, limited edition of 500 copies)

72 pages

Printed and manufactured in Japan