From the creator of Pawcasso comes Surviving the Wild, an inspiring graphic novel series for young readers. It’s the perfect introduction to the wonders and perils of the natural world – and how we can all do our part to protect it.
Australian-based author Remy Lai writes and draws stories for kids with her two dogs by her side. She is also the award-winning creator of Pie in the Sky, Fly on the Wall and Pawcasso.
Surviving the Wild is a heartfelt and hopeful early reader graphic novel series featuring adorable animals surviving in the wilderness despite the perils of climate change. Rainbow the Koala and Star the Elephant are the first two titles in this encouraging series for readers aged 6+.
The first book introduces us to Rainbow, the koala. Rainbow’s mum says it’s time for Rainbow to go out and find a new home, but life in the bush can be scary. It’s hard to find the perfect tree. A kookaburra keeps laughing at Rainbow, it’s hot and Rainbow’s thirsty, and Rainbow smells smoke…
In Rainbow the Koala, early readers are introduced to the prospect of stepping out of their comfort zone and into the big world – which is especially relevant for kids starting school. Lai’s bright and colourful illustrations become dark and gloomy as Rainbow’s story progresses. From the koalas who cling to the trees to the birds who perch for a place of rest, this graphic novel shows the harrowing impact that bushfires can have on our wildlife. This message is timely, relevant and hits close to home in the wake of Australia’s recent bushfire seasons.
Book #2 in the series introduces us to Star, the elephant. There isn’t enough food left on Star’s island, so the herd has to split up. But the world out there is so big! Soon, Star is lost and alone, facing giant spiders, a big, wild ocean and the scariest thing of all… humans!
With illustrations shifting from day to night, we see Star go on a long journey that takes an unexpected turn. While dodging many harmful obstacles on the island, Star gets to see the good, the bad and the ugly – including humans. I appreciated Lai’s perspective which shows two opposing, yet very realistic, paths that our wildlife can end up on. The core message of Star the Elephant is an important one: humans can either destroy or protect our wildlife, and it is up to us to decide the role we want to play.
Both books in the series are sure to encourage early readers to reflect on their choices and inspire them to make a difference. If you’re an animal lover, a fan of graphic novels or just love a great page-turner then Surviving the Wild is the series for you.
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