Wagnificent: The Adventures of Thunder and Sage
Author: Bethanie Murguia
Expected Published: July 23, 2024 by Roaring Brook Press
Summary: Discover a new young graphic novel series full of humor and heart about a lovable dog, her favorite human, and their pawsome pack in this unforgettable friendship story perfect for fans of PAWCASSO and ANIMAL RESCUE FRIENDS.
Thunder the dog likes to take naps by the sunny window, sniff around for hidden treats, play fetch, and get cuddles from her favorite human, Sage.
Though Thunder wants to be good for Sage, she’s having a ruff time stopping herself from doing things she knows are wrong – like barking, digging, and chasing suspicious furballs around the yard. She’s shocked when her inner Wolf appears one day and reveals the truth behind these irresistible impulses. It’s all because dogs are really wolves! (That is, they’re descended from them.) The big question Will Thunder choose to be a loyal pet to Sage, or embrace the wild animal within?
For fans of PAWS and KATIE THE CATSITTER, and anyone who has ever pondered the secret life of their cherished four-legged sidekick, meet Thunder and Sage ―and get ready to feel ALL THE WAGS!
Review: I absolutely adored this charming graphic novel and can’t wait to share it with kids! It’s tells the story of a girl Sage and her pup Thunder. They have an amazing relationship until an imaginary wolf starts trying to convince Thunder to be more wolflike (destroying things, howling, running away). Thunder isn’t so sure that he wants to be wolfy because he is happy being a dog in Sage’s family. There are great themes in this book, and it was fun to read as an adult, too! I loved the ways in which the author shared more about how dogs have evolved into wolves through an engaging story! I highly recommend this one!
Tools for Navigation: So many kids are huge dog lovers, and this book will surely captivate thousands of readers. Teachers might have students read this book alongside a history of the domestication of dogs.
Discussion Questions:
- How does Thunder emulated wolves? How is Thunder different?
- What internal conflict is Thunder experiencing?
- What did you learn from this book?
Flagged Spread:
Read This If You Love: Books about dogs, graphic novels, humor
Recommended For:
Oh, this sounds so cute!! Kids love animal books, so I’ll have to make sure to have plenty of these ordered at the bookstore I work at.