04/08/2024
Thunder the dog loves her human companion Sage, whose affection she’s always happy to return. But when Sage’s obsession with finding a magical creature so “my life would be complete” reaches an apex, she puts a starry cloak and wizard’s hat on Thunder that the pooch absolutely hates. Thunder’s internal cries for help are answered by her inner wolf, who appears to tell Thunder that she “must revolt against this indignity.” As Thunder learns more about her heritage, she endeavors to follow her wolf’s advice by tearing her hat and cape to shreds—an action she immediately regrets. Though Sage is openly disappointed, she forgives Thunder easily, and decides to make Thunder a new cloak—and a human-size one for herself—so they can go creature-tracking together. Despite their mended bond, however, Thunder continues questioning whether she should live with her beloved human or run wild in the woods. Painterly depictions of Thunder’s wordless communication with Sage highlight the complexity of their relationship and Thunder’s curiosity about the wild in this wholesome graphic novel series opener by Murguia (What’s Your Name?). Informational panels and diagrams about dogs appear throughout; back matter concludes. Sage has pale skin. Ages 6–10. (July)
"Bethanie Murguia has done something 'Wagnificent' indeed. With deft storytelling and pitch perfect cartooning that's occasionally interrupted with some truly glorious scenic flourishes, she's captured that special bond we share with the dogs around us and made it into a graphic novel as warm as the puppy sleeping in your lap. On one paw, this is a love story. On another, it's a ripping yarn of adventure. In the long run, this is a graphic novel perfect for the younger readers. If you love a dog or know a dog or even know what a dog is, this book is essential reading." —Nick Bruel, creator of the New York Times-bestselling Bad Kitty series
“A charming story about the important differences of what it means to be an individual and what it means to be part of something greater." —Dan Santat, National Book Award winning creator of A First Time for Everything
"Readers will adore Thunder's hilarious and heartwarming perspective and connect with Sage's love for her canine companion. The perfect read for all dog lovers. Wagnificent is paws-itively delightful!" —Megan Wagner Lloyd, bestselling author of Allergic
"A must-have for dog lovers. I give it five woofs!" —Aron Steinke, bestselling and Eisner Award–winning creator of the Mr. Wolf’s Class series
"This book is the perfect love letter to dogs, from their smelly nervous farts to their absolute loyalty to us. A laugh-out-loud, heartwarming story about dogs being dogs, why they are the way they are, and ultimately why we love them so much." —Ruth Chan, creator of Uprooted
"[A] wholesome graphic novel series opener." —Publishers Weekly
"A thoughtful, ambitious adventure for aspiring animal behaviorists." —Kirkus Reviews
"A heartwarming story of a dog’s loyalty to their human pack, perfect for young dog lovers." —School Library Journal
"Whether you're a dog lover or just curious about the world from a pup's perspective, this funny and enlightening book is perfect for young readers itching for a good story." —Booklist
07/01/2024
Gr 2–5—Thunder (a.k.a. Thunderpants, Thunderpaws, or Thunderbutt) lives to spend every moment possible with her human kid Sage, but as a dog, she doesn't always understand the things that Sage does. When Sage decides to dress Thunder in a wizard costume, Thunder's fear and confusion summons her inner wolf that only she can see. Being the good dog that she is, Thunder wants to appease both the intervening wolf and Sage, but listening to the wolf leads to bad pet behavior, such as barking, chasing squirrels, and destroying things in the house. Ultimately, Thunder must find her own balance between her wolf instincts and being a cherished family pet. Thunder is a fantastic canine protagonist, giving readers a dog's perspective into trying to live alongside humans. Thunder is exquisitely portrayed through colorful illustrations that fully capture dog body language; extra insights into Thunder's emotions, such as worry winds (nervous farting) and the wagometer will resonate with young readers. Additional factual information on dogs, including segments on pack manners and a brief history of dogs, makes this both an enjoyable and educational read. VERDICT A heartwarming story of a dog's loyalty to their human pack, perfect for young dog lovers.—Amanda Melilli
