4 stars = Great! Might re-read.

Such a cute chapter book graphic novel series! The conflict is pretty predictable, especially to anyone who has introduced a new animal to their pet. I loved that both dogs had a wolf "advisor." Terrific ending.

A fiercely protective and territorial dog learns the importance of opening up her home, as well as making room for friends, in this graphic novel. Thunder is less than pleased when her human, Sage, takes in Byron, a rescue dog, as a foster pet. She tries everything she can to make life uncomfortable for him, and the animosity is mutual. When Byron runs away, Thunder's Inner Wolf shows her the error of her ways. And as she and Sage search for him, Thunder learns about how a true dog makes room to welcome others into their pack.

Murguia structures the book almost completely from Thunder's perspective, both on a physical and mental level, which works very well. I liked the arrows pointing out places and sensory memories that were important to her and the neighborhood dogs, as well as the inclusion of internal doggie assessments such as the "growl meter" and "wagometer." I also love the concept of each dog having their own Jiminy Cricket-esque Inner Wolf catered to their personality, with different physical appearances. The panels that show them connecting with other and running with the dogs in spirit were some of my favorites. Even when Thunder doesn't behave well. the story never shows her as an innately bad dog, but one who needs guidance. The way in which she and Byron truly connect with each other at the end is satisfying and realistic. Witnessing Byron's emotional development as he opens himself up to love and being part of the pack is sweet, too.

The text-to-graphics ratio here is just right for potentially skeptical young readers, as well as those starting to move from smaller to slightly longer and more comprehensive graphic novels. This is also a very good read for children who are animal lovers, have a pet(s) or are thinking about getting one, and those who show a budding interest in rescue and animal adoption work. The illustrations depict the different aspects of tailoring one's home space to accommodate a pet with gates, toys, separate beds and accessible doors. There are some useful fun facts at the end about elements of dog behavior, such as their sense of smell and use of scent marking. I alluded to this in a review of another animal-themed book, but I truly believe that one of the best ways for children to gain true love and respect for animals is by learning as much about them as possible, respecting their differences and learning how to communicate with them. This book does a good job of advancing that
through Sage and her desire for everyone to feel welcome.


I haven't read the first volume of the series; I'm interested in getting it and learning about Thunder's backstory and the beginning of her and Sage's relationship. The deep love and protectiveness that she feels for Sage drives most of her actions and her emotions, and it's the love and patience which Sage has poured into her that helps her realize the importance of welcoming others and that changes her feelings towards Byron. I also would have liked to hear and see more of Byron's backstory and what contributed to his emotional development, particularly as a very small dog who previously lived on the streets. I'm not sure how many volumes are planned for this series, but that would definitely be a perspective worth exploring. At any rate, I think that the book works fine on its own as an introduction to the series for kids.


Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher, Roaring Book Press (Macmillan) for this DRC in exchange for a fair and honest review. The thoughts and opinions expressed here are my own.

This was a cute graphic novel for transitional readers about a dog who suddenly finds himself having to share his den and his owner. The author was inspired to write it based on her own dogs, and anyone who enjoys seeing a dog's antics when he has to welcome a new friend will enjoy this book.

Thunder was a funny, cute, and honest protagonist who is doing what he does best: protecting his space and enjoying dog life. I recommend this book for schools and libraries.

Thanks to NetGalley and Macmillan Children's Publishing Group/Roaring Brook Press for the digital ARC.

It was enjoyable to revisit Thunder and Sage in this new adventure. This volume follows a very similar formula to the previous one, with Thunder getting into trouble for listening to his "wolf." In this installment, Thunder and Sage meet new friends, and fun chaos ensues with the addition of a new pup.

I enjoyed the volume, but it felt somewhat repetitive when the new pup ran away, as it mirrored Thunder's experience in the first volume. Despite that, I am looking forward to future adventures if a third volume is released.

I must say, the artwork on pages 124-125 is incredible.

P.S. I wonder if we will ever get to meet Sage's parents.

In Wagnificent: A New Dog in the Den a dog named Thunder, who gets nervous around other dogs, must now share his home and his human with a foster dog.

This was a cute read. Thunder is really friendly with humans, but a bit shy around other dogs. Her instincts tell her to protect her space and her human and jealousy becomes an issue. But opening her home and accepting Byron are just what she needs. The artwork is well done and the facial expressions and the growl meter in the book really help you get a sense of what everyone is feeling.

The kids will love this book and you get some great information about pack dynamics with different canine groups at the end. Very neat!

Life is perfect for Thunder and his pack Sage. They go to the park and meet new humans and canines. But then the apple cart is turned over. Sage’s friend Manuel wants her to foster his dog Byron since his sister is allergic. Being the dog lover that she is, Sage agrees. She treats Byron with hospitality so that he feels right at home. This does not sit well with Thunder, however, as her hackles rise with jealousy and annoyance. Byron takes over her bed and den, pees to mark his territory and cuddles with Sage in bed. Byron does not follow the pack rules and yet Thunder is the one who always seems to get in trouble with Sage or is wholly ignored. Thunder is not a happy camper. With guidance provided by the Wolf spirit, what is Thunder to do?

Told from Thunder’s point of view, this is an enjoyable graphic novel for younger readers who would like to read about human-to-canine relationships. The illustrations were simple, colors were realistic and the font was easy to read. I hope to go back to read the first in this series to find out how Thunder and Sage came to become a pack. InFURmation facts are provided at the end.

I have to say that I was completely in Thunder's corner on this. Sage got jealous over a little thing like trying to follow Zia home and then she up and brings a whole entire other dog right into Thunder's den?? Nuh-uh. Unacceptable. I am really glad that Thunder and Byron found common ground and recognized each other for what they were. BFFs.

Thunder and her favorite human, Sage, learn what it's like to foster a dog. When Byron the foster arrives, he makes things challenging for Thunder, while appearing to be an angel for Sage. Humorous, emotional, and hopeful, Wagnificent is a win for all!

Wagnificent is a fun graphic novel for younger children. Especially ones who love dogs. I don't know if older kids will like it as much because there's not really a cohesive story. It will be popular on the library shelf either way.

Wagnificent is a cute story of the growing pains of bringing a new dog into the household. I think this book would be good for dog owners thinking of getting a foster puppy or introducing a new animal into the home.

Thunder's perfect life with her human, Sage, is disrupted by Byron a dog that Sage agrees to foster. Byron doesn't follow the pack rules and pushes Thunder out of her bed and her bowl and even monopolizing Sage. The illustrations are filled with humor and emotion and, when Byron runs away, and adventure and the dogs work on getting a long....just as Byron is adopted by Sage's best friend. Fun graphic novel that gives the reader great insight into the lives of pets. There is an extensive author's note containing facts about dogs and the need for fosters and rescues.

I love that there is another book in this series and the depiction of dogs interacting with their wolf half is just always such a delight. Readers are going to fall in love again with these characters and the art is just perfection. I am so excited that I got to read an advance copy of this book and for sure will be adding it to our Paws for Reading displays as soon as it comes out.
Thank you to Macmillan Children’s Publishing Group and Netgalley for allowing me to read an advance copy of this title.

Adorable story of the arrival of a new dog, told from the point of view of the FIRST dog. Cute, silly, fun illustrations, and an overall great read for any dog/animal lovers in your library. Part of a series, so readers who enjoy this can go on to read more about Thunder (the first dog) and his human!
Thanks to NetGalley for the eARC!

Book Title: Wagnificent: A New Dog in the Den
Author: Bethanie Murguia
Genre / Age Range: Animal fiction / Early middle grade (ages 6–9)
Read-Aloud or Independent Read: Independent read (or a fun read-aloud for animal lovers)

What My Young Reader(s) Thought
Ages: 8
Favorite part: The dynamics between the dogs and the introduction of the new pup—funny, sweet, and totally relatable if you’ve ever had to share your space.
What made them laugh (or gasp or cry): The dog personalities and how dramatic they could be! Lots of good giggles.
What stuck with them after reading: That change can be hard, but new friends (even new siblings!) can turn out to be really great.
Would they read a sequel or recommend it to friends? Absolutely—this series is a hit and perfect for kids who love dogs or talking animal adventures.

What I Thought as a Parent
Quality of writing and storytelling: Light, clever, and engaging—perfectly tuned for younger readers just building chapter book stamina.
Themes or topics worth discussing: Friendship, welcoming others, jealousy, and adjusting to change
Content notes (if any): None—very wholesome and heartwarming
Educational or emotional value: A great way to talk about sibling dynamics or any kind of family change (new pet, new classmate, etc.)
What I appreciated most: It’s just plain fun while still sneaking in thoughtful emotional lessons—and the dog voices are pitch-perfect.

Quick Impressions
Fun and engagement: High—great pacing and humor
Writing quality: Playful and age-appropriate
Relatability and themes: Strong for kids navigating social change
Age appropriateness: Excellent for ages 6–9
Re-readability: Likely—especially for dog lovers or early chapter book fans

Would We Recommend It?
Overall impression: Yes—a charming, funny, feel-good sequel
Who we think would enjoy it: Early elementary readers who love dogs, animals, or friendship stories
Best time or setting to read it: Weekend read, early reader book club, or shared reading time
Perfect for fans of: Owl Diaries, The Critter Club, or Fenway and Hattie

Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for the advance copy! All opinions are entirely our own.

“Wagnificent: A New Dog in the Den” is a quick and easy read with simple language and an approachable art style.

While it was a bit too childish for my taste, I recognize that I’m not the intended audience.

For young readers, especially those who love dogs, this book will probably be an enjoyable read.

Wagnificent is such a fun series. I love the art and going through each story through the mind and heart of the dog is such a joy. I will read every single next one!

In this second installment, Thunder is not sure how to react to the new dog that Sage has brought in as a foster. The dog conversations are exactly what I would expect and it was an overall cute story with good graphics!

The first Wagnificent book has been a sleeper hit in my library. It sat on the shelf for a few months before its first checkout, and now it gets picked up from the returns cart before it's even checked back in! So, I was very excited to see the sequel, because I know my students will love it.

Wagnificent: A New Dog in the Den is a charming installment in this dog-narrated series. Thunder and her human Sage encounter new challenges, when Sage fosters a new dog and Thunder feels like her territory has been invaded. Thunder's inner Wolf (that appears when she fear toots) faces off against Byron's inner protector.

There is even more meat to the story than the first book in the series, and this title continues some helpful (but not an overwhelming amount of) information about how dogs communicate their feelings and interact with each other.

Highly recommend.

This graphic novel shows a humourous take on what it means to introduce another dog into your home. Told from the perspective of Thunder, kids will love all the shenanigans she gets into when she meets Byron, a new foster dog. Byron and Thunder have to learn how to live with each other as well and settle other differences. At the novel's end is a great chapter teaching kids about humane societies and different types of dog personalities.

My daughter is 7 and just really getting into graphic novels--she and I read this together, and she adored it! When Byron, a new dog joins the family for a day of pet-sitting, Thunder must deal with the smaller dog moving in on his owner, Sage, plus all of his belongings. Thunder will have to find a way to deal with this visitor! Kiddo loved it and will be seeking out the first book, too.