At this time of year, I love to watch A Charlie Brown Christmas (1965) and It's a Wonderful Life (1946). In both of these stories, the protagonists find themselves alienated, unhappy and disconnected from the warm sentiments of the season.

But with a little help from others, they are restored and see the world anew. 'Tis the season for last-minute epiphanies, after all.

So when Sam Hester emailed me on Monday to suggest a last-minute zine idea for the holidays, a way to connect neighbours who may or may not know each other, there was only one answer in my mind. Yes!

In 2023, The Sprawl launched a new zine series by Sam called Curious Calgary. These mini-comics are designed to be printed at home, folded, and passed around by hand.

But this instalment is different. It's deliberately missing one key element: you!

Sam has started this zine and left it for you to finish. You can draw, write or do both, as you prefer.

Here's how to do it:

We made this specifically for you to share with your neighbours. Think of it as a way of extending a little kindness and goodwill at a time of year that can be lonely for many.

It's never too late to share a little kindness. Or to unexpectedly receive it.

Well, that's a wrap on 2023 for Team Sprawl. Thank you so much for all your love and support this year. We so deeply appreciate it.

Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays and see you in the New Year!

Jeremy Klaszus is editor-in-chief of The Sprawl. Sam Hester is a Calgary-based graphic recorder and longtime indie comics creator.