According to a press release from a source at Penguin Random House, Random House Worlds is set to release Critical Role: Smiley Day!, which is a new illustrated book designed by Sam Reigel (The Amazing Spider-Man games, Transformers Cybertron). He is also one of the co-founders of Critical Role which is a “acclaimed cross-platform multimedia entertainment sensation” says Penguin Random House. The book is set to be available on October 7, 2025.
The Journey of Critical Role starts all the way back in 2015 with a friend group that included Matthew Mercer (The Legend of Vox Machina, Muzzled the Musical), Ashley Johnson (Growing Pains, The Killing), Marisha Ray (Dungeons & Dragons web series), Taliesin Jaffe (Dungeons & Dragons web series), Travis Willingham (Marvel’s Avengers, Fullmetal Alchemist), Sam Riegel, Laura Bailey (Marvel’s Avenger Assemble,The Legend of Vox Machina), and Liam O’Brien (Star Wars Rebels, Transformers: Robots in Disguise). They all came together to create a new story that will change the game for all readers no matter what age .
Over the years the group has embarked on a campaign journey having a total of 3 campaigns over six years. While that was happening a fan-favorite character emerged—Fresh Cut Grass, an endearing automaton known for offering quirky yet well-intentioned advice to the adventurers of Bells Hells. However the pressure of having to support others can be exhausting sometimes, and not too long, Fresh Cut Grass realizes that they have completely been neglecting their own well-being due to helping friends.
Written from the perspective of Fresh Cut Grass, Critical Role: Smiley Day! is a humorous and insightful book that playfully reminds readers of all ages about the importance of self-care and taking time to make yourself feel better. The book features great reflections to make the reader think and vibrant illustrations by Thorn L. Knight (Critical Role), this book is an amazing addition for any Critical Role fan.
Delrey Books took to instagram to share the upcoming release of the book. Check it out here.