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Cornelia Funke, Author
Manuel Šumberac, Illustrator
Imprint: Welbeck Children's Books
Publication date: April 23, 2026
Category: Death & bereavement
ISBN: 9781804537367
An exquisitely illustrated story for anyone who needs hope and comfort in difficult times. A young angel learns about the Dark Things that humans carry – pain, loneliness and fear – and how to ease that burden.
“Glorious, transcendent, full of warmth and light. Truly a book to treasure.” Sophie Anderson, bestselling author of The House With Chicken Legs
‘What is death?’
‘That’s what the humans call the bridge. They fear it very much. And that is why we fly to meet them.’
Barnabel is a young angel who longs for a time he might be allowed to go on to the Bridge. But first he must learn about the Dark Things – pain, loneliness, rage and always fear. So much fear. And only when he is ready to carry these things and outweigh the heaviest human heart will he be able to chase away the shadows and fly all the way over the bridge.
Cornelia Funke is the New York Times bestselling author of the Inkheart trilogy and a whole host of popular children’s novels and picture books.
Born in the German town of Dorsten, Cornelia initially worked as an illustrator but soon began writing her own stories.
Since then Cornelia has sold millions of copies of her books and she is internationally recognised as one of the best-loved authors writing for children today.
Cornelia lives with her family in Los Angeles.
Manuel Šumberac is an illustrator and animator who has won awards for his animated films and music videos. He was born and lives in Croatia.