New Graphic Novel '75 kg of Happiness' Aims to Save Europe's Hedgehogs
Veterinarian Massimo Vacchetta and comic artist Roberta Morucci have joined forces to create '75 kg of happiness', a graphic novel featuring Ninna, an orphaned hedgehog, as its narrator. The book aims to raise funds and awareness for hedgehog conservation, with proceeds supporting the first-ever Veterinary Clinic for hedgehogs in Europe.
Massimo, founder of the hedgehog recovery center 'La Ninna' in Novello, Cuneo province, has dedicated his life to caring for these spiky creatures. The center hosts around 400 hedgehogs annually, providing care during hibernation and treating those injured by human activity.
The graphic novel retells the plot of Massimo's bestseller '25 grams of happiness' and offers practical tips on hedgehog care. It serves as a guide for self-help and personal development, with a unique hedgehog perspective. Roberta's illustrations bring Ninna's story to life, capturing the essence of these charming creatures.
The European hedgehog is listed as 'near threatened' by the IUCN Red List, making conservation efforts more crucial than ever. Through '75 kg of happiness', Massimo and Roberta hope to raise funds for the establishment of a 24/7 emergency room at the Veterinary Clinic, ensuring hedgehogs receive the care they need, whenever they need it.