Wagnificent

April 8, 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 1, 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

Copyright 2024 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

July 1, 2024
Grades 3-6 Step into the paws of Thunder, the most charming canine you'll ever meet! Even if you're firmly in the cat camp, Thunder and her loyal "beast with no tail," Sage, are about to take you on an adventure that'll have you wagging your tail with excitement. Sage thinks Thunder is the best dog ever, and Thunder is completely devoted to Sage . . . even if that means wearing some questionable wizard attire that triggers her ""worry wind."" But when Thunder's shadow wolf appears, things start to get really interesting. Will Thunder give in to her wild side and leave Sage behind, or will she keep her wolfish instincts in check and stay with loyal Sage? In this delightful tale from acclaimed picture-book author Murguia, readers will dive into Thunder and Sage's world through beautiful watercolor illustrations that capture their goofy antics and heartwarming friendship. 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.

COPYRIGHT(2024) Booklist, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

June 15, 2024
A dutiful dog is challenged by her wilder side. Thunder loves her owner, a light-skinned, purple-haired girl named Sage. Sage gives Thunder a comfortable home, serenades her, and takes her on walks. But Thunder is coming to learn more about the gulf between her canine nature and her human's expectations. Exploring a newfound passion for magic and fantasy, Sage dresses her pet in a wizard's robe. Thunder's inner wolf comes to life in her frustration, urging her to rip up the robe and embrace her lupine leanings. What begins as a bright buddy comic quickly becomes a poignant reflection on canine domestication as Thunder realizes that her responses to stimuli in the human and natural worlds are rooted in wolfish instincts. Growling at other dogs is her way of protecting her pack, while her need to hunt comes out when she chases squirrels. Eventually, Thunder flees to the woods. Will she find a way to balance her love for Sage with her wild instincts? Capturing both goofy and tender moments, Murguia's cartoon illustrations depict the cozy comfort of civilization and the untamed beauty of the woods. Editorial comments in big black arrows and occasional "wagometers" indicating Thunder's state of mind ramp up the humor. Each chapter concludes with "Pack Manners" interludes--brief comics with hilariously spot-on examples of typical canine behaviors--and backmatter further examines the origins, physiology, and habits of the modern dog. A thoughtful, ambitious adventure for aspiring animal behaviorists. (author's note, additional reading) (Graphic fiction. 6-10)

COPYRIGHT(2024) Kirkus Reviews, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

July 1, 2024
In this accessible and enjoyable graphic novel, Thunder always aims to be a good pack member to human Sage, but a wolf ancestor appears and tries to convince her to find her "wolfitude." This includes hunting for rodents, barking loudly, and running away. Readers will enjoy spending time with goodhearted Thunder and imaginative, understanding Sage. Digital ink and watercolor panel illustrations are filled with dog logic and funny details including a "wagometer" and "Pack Manners" breakdowns. Back matter includes "More InFURmation" about dogs and dog behaviors.

(Copyright 2024 by The Horn Book, Incorporated, Boston. All rights reserved.)