The Adventures of Thunder and Sage (Wagnificent)

by Bethanie Murguia (Author) Bethanie Murguia (Illustrator)

The Adventures of Thunder and Sage (Wagnificent)
Reading Level: 4th − 5th Grade
Series: Wagnificent

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 is: 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!

*Includes nonfiction backmatter for young readers to learn more about their favorite furry friends*

Select format:
Paperback
$13.99

Publishers Weekly

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)

Copyright 2024 Publishers Weekly, LLC Used with permission.

Kirkus

A thoughtful, ambitious adventure for aspiring animal behaviorists.

 

Review quotes

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
 

 

Classification
Fiction
ISBN-13
9781250835307
Lexile Measure
-
Guided Reading Level
-
Publisher
Roaring Brook Press
Publication date
July 23, 2024
Series
Wagnificent
BISAC categories
JUV039060 - Juvenile Fiction | Social Themes | Friendship
JUV019000 - Juvenile Fiction | Humorous Stories
JUV002070 - Juvenile Fiction | Animals | Dogs
JUV008110 - Juvenile Fiction | Comics & Graphic Novels | Humorous
Library of Congress categories
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