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Kodi: A Place to Call Home
Not yet published
Expected 1 Sep 26176 pages, Paperback
Expected publication September 1, 2026
About the author
Jared Cullum
23 books60 followersBorn in Tennessee and raised in Virginia and Texas, Jared is currently settled with his wife and children in Pittsburgh, PA. He has written and or painted story and concept art for Top Shelf Productions, Frenemy Studios, Boom!-Archaia and Jim Henson Studios working on titles such as: Labyrinth, Dark Crystal, Fraggle Rock and Storyteller.
Between writing, illustration and field-sketching, Jared is an avid teacher of observational painting from life. He regularly records full length demos for Patreon subscribers and sped up traditional painting demos for his youtube channel, "Jared Loves to Draw."
From workshops to schools, Jared has taught in Pennsylvania and Virginia. He currently teaches plein air watercolor, portraiture, cartooning and gouache at Sweetwater Art Center in Sewickley, PA and is available for workshops.
He is also available for commissions in both his traditional painting and storytelling styles. Contact for more information.
His most recent work is a full length young adult graphic novel for Top Shelf Productions called, 'Kodi 2: A Place to Call Home' which is a sequel to his first graphic novel, Kodi.
You can also find more of his work on the Comic-book series Usagi Yojimbo: Kaito '84 which is published by Dark Horse and Dogu.
Between writing, illustration and field-sketching, Jared is an avid teacher of observational painting from life. He regularly records full length demos for Patreon subscribers and sped up traditional painting demos for his youtube channel, "Jared Loves to Draw."
From workshops to schools, Jared has taught in Pennsylvania and Virginia. He currently teaches plein air watercolor, portraiture, cartooning and gouache at Sweetwater Art Center in Sewickley, PA and is available for workshops.
He is also available for commissions in both his traditional painting and storytelling styles. Contact for more information.
His most recent work is a full length young adult graphic novel for Top Shelf Productions called, 'Kodi 2: A Place to Call Home' which is a sequel to his first graphic novel, Kodi.
You can also find more of his work on the Comic-book series Usagi Yojimbo: Kaito '84 which is published by Dark Horse and Dogu.
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
May 31, 2026
Thank you so much to Netgalley, IDW Publishing and the author for giving me the opportunity to read this as an arc!
I didn’t realize this was book 2 when I requested, but I have to say it wasn’t a problem. The story stands on its own nicely, but I will for sure check out book 1!
Kodi: a place to call home is a story of friendship and belonging. Katya and Kodi have to deal with living in the city, while trying to avoid getting separated.
This story was cozy and sweet, but also very emotional. The bond between Kodi and Katya is wholesome, and I loved following them in their search for “home”! The illustrations are gorgeous, absolutely breathtaking. They elevate the story to a whole different level.
Last but not least, I have to mention that every time there was an illustration with Kodi and Katya running I kept thinking about the song On My Way from Brother Bear. Tell everybody I’m on my way, new friends and new places to see fits this story perfectly!
I didn’t realize this was book 2 when I requested, but I have to say it wasn’t a problem. The story stands on its own nicely, but I will for sure check out book 1!
Kodi: a place to call home is a story of friendship and belonging. Katya and Kodi have to deal with living in the city, while trying to avoid getting separated.
This story was cozy and sweet, but also very emotional. The bond between Kodi and Katya is wholesome, and I loved following them in their search for “home”! The illustrations are gorgeous, absolutely breathtaking. They elevate the story to a whole different level.
Last but not least, I have to mention that every time there was an illustration with Kodi and Katya running I kept thinking about the song On My Way from Brother Bear. Tell everybody I’m on my way, new friends and new places to see fits this story perfectly!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
If you enjoy children's books that combine beautiful artwork with meaningful themes, Kodi: A Place to Call Home is definitely worth reading. It will particularly appeal to readers who care about animal welfare and stories that encourage empathy through engaging illustrations.
I was given this book by IDW Publishing and Top Shelf Productions via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Although I only realised after requesting it that this is the second volume in the series, I never felt lost while reading. The story works remarkably well as a standalone, providing enough context for new readers to understand the characters, their relationships, and the emotional stakes without having read the first book.
The story follows Kodi, a bear, and his young friend Katya. Through their journey, it explores what home truly means from two very different perspectives: that of a wild animal and that of a human child. Rather than presenting a simplistic adventure, the book gently raises thought-provoking questions about coexistence, belonging, and the way humans often prioritise economic interests over the well-being of wildlife. I appreciated that these themes are introduced with sensitivity, making them accessible to younger readers without becoming overly didactic.
One aspect I particularly enjoyed was the portrayal of Katya's grandmother. In a story where many adults represent human selfishness or indifference and aversion toward wild animals, she offers a compassionate counterpoint. Her concern for both Kodi and Katya reinforces the book's central message that kindness and respect for living beings can coexist with human society.
The illustrations were undoubtedly one of the book's greatest strengths. I have a particular fondness for watercolour artwork, and the soft, expressive style perfectly complements the emotional tone of the narrative. Every page conveys warmth and atmosphere, allowing the illustrations to tell as much of the story as the text itself. They enhance the emotional impact without overwhelming it, creating a reading experience that feels immersive from beginning to end.
I finished the book in a single sitting, which speaks to how engaging I found it. While the plot itself is relatively straightforward, I believe that simplicity is one of its greatest qualities. It allows the important themes to remain clear and accessible for its intended audience.
That said, I would recommend this book primarily as a shared reading experience between adults and children. The narrative addresses topics such as displacement, captivity, and humanity's relationship with wildlife, which can lead to meaningful conversations after reading. It is a gentle yet impactful story that encourages reflection while remaining hopeful, making it an excellent choice for families who enjoy books with both emotional depth and educational value.
I was given this book by IDW Publishing and Top Shelf Productions via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Although I only realised after requesting it that this is the second volume in the series, I never felt lost while reading. The story works remarkably well as a standalone, providing enough context for new readers to understand the characters, their relationships, and the emotional stakes without having read the first book.
The story follows Kodi, a bear, and his young friend Katya. Through their journey, it explores what home truly means from two very different perspectives: that of a wild animal and that of a human child. Rather than presenting a simplistic adventure, the book gently raises thought-provoking questions about coexistence, belonging, and the way humans often prioritise economic interests over the well-being of wildlife. I appreciated that these themes are introduced with sensitivity, making them accessible to younger readers without becoming overly didactic.
One aspect I particularly enjoyed was the portrayal of Katya's grandmother. In a story where many adults represent human selfishness or indifference and aversion toward wild animals, she offers a compassionate counterpoint. Her concern for both Kodi and Katya reinforces the book's central message that kindness and respect for living beings can coexist with human society.
The illustrations were undoubtedly one of the book's greatest strengths. I have a particular fondness for watercolour artwork, and the soft, expressive style perfectly complements the emotional tone of the narrative. Every page conveys warmth and atmosphere, allowing the illustrations to tell as much of the story as the text itself. They enhance the emotional impact without overwhelming it, creating a reading experience that feels immersive from beginning to end.
I finished the book in a single sitting, which speaks to how engaging I found it. While the plot itself is relatively straightforward, I believe that simplicity is one of its greatest qualities. It allows the important themes to remain clear and accessible for its intended audience.
That said, I would recommend this book primarily as a shared reading experience between adults and children. The narrative addresses topics such as displacement, captivity, and humanity's relationship with wildlife, which can lead to meaningful conversations after reading. It is a gentle yet impactful story that encourages reflection while remaining hopeful, making it an excellent choice for families who enjoy books with both emotional depth and educational value.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
*** Thank you to the publisher for the review ARC through Netgalley! ***
First off, the artwork is so pretty! It's watercolour painted with cartoony lines, which is such a fun and whimsical combination! I could sit and stare at some of the environments in here - such a visual treat.
Second, it's a stressful story. A wild bear in the city - everyone is either scared of him, tries to provoke him, or wants to take him away. Maybe I'm being triggered because I've had reactive dogs and I know how unpredictable and mean people can be. I'm also very familiar with adults threatening and trying to take my beloved pets away as a child. So maybe the discomfort reading this story just pokes the wrong trauma in me. Kodi's struggling in the city, and the little girl doesn't understand that Kodi has vastly different needs than she does. She just wants to be with her best friend. Her grandma is too scared to tell her the truth of what needs to be done for Kodi to be happiest. Though it's ultimately a happy ending, it was a little rough reading through it.
I didn't read the first Kodi graphic novel, but I knew it was for kids, so I didn't think it would be so stressful. Without the previous book for context, I did have to find my footing, and it wasn't until 3/4 of the way that this book hinted at something the main character had gone through that her personality made a little more sense.
Some other things I appreciate here: two POC characters, including an Indigenous character; and the little girl's breakdown about everyone leaving her.
Overall, it's a beautifully watercolour painted graphic novel and it does have a happy ending. Just be aware that it's not as light and whimsical as it may appear.
First off, the artwork is so pretty! It's watercolour painted with cartoony lines, which is such a fun and whimsical combination! I could sit and stare at some of the environments in here - such a visual treat.
Second, it's a stressful story. A wild bear in the city - everyone is either scared of him, tries to provoke him, or wants to take him away. Maybe I'm being triggered because I've had reactive dogs and I know how unpredictable and mean people can be. I'm also very familiar with adults threatening and trying to take my beloved pets away as a child. So maybe the discomfort reading this story just pokes the wrong trauma in me. Kodi's struggling in the city, and the little girl doesn't understand that Kodi has vastly different needs than she does. She just wants to be with her best friend. Her grandma is too scared to tell her the truth of what needs to be done for Kodi to be happiest. Though it's ultimately a happy ending, it was a little rough reading through it.
I didn't read the first Kodi graphic novel, but I knew it was for kids, so I didn't think it would be so stressful. Without the previous book for context, I did have to find my footing, and it wasn't until 3/4 of the way that this book hinted at something the main character had gone through that her personality made a little more sense.
Some other things I appreciate here: two POC characters, including an Indigenous character; and the little girl's breakdown about everyone leaving her.
Overall, it's a beautifully watercolour painted graphic novel and it does have a happy ending. Just be aware that it's not as light and whimsical as it may appear.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
⭐⭐⭐⭐½ (4.5/5) : A touching and memorable story that celebrates the idea that home is found in the connections we make with others.
This is a heartwarming graphic novel that beautifully explores theme where it tells the worth of family, belonging, friendship and finding one's place in the world. The watercolor artwork is charming and expressive, bringing both the characters and the wilderness setting to life. It is truly a delightful and emotionally rich Graphic novel, but meant for proper glossy Paperback because for an eBook its fonts are very small to read.
The standout character for me was Katya. Her carefree will and still a caring side for her only best friend Kodi tells a lot about value of a relationship. She brought warmth, strength and emotional depth to the story, making many of the most memorable moments even more impactful. Her interactions with Kodi added a genuine sense of care and understanding that elevated the narrative. Other casts like Sena, Joshua, Meema & Jessica were all good to go for the whole story.
While the story follows a familiar path at times, its heartfelt message and lovable cast make it an enjoyable and meaningful read. A touching adventure that reminds readers that home is not just a place—it's the people who accept and support us. This amazing graphic work gives an uplifting message which makes it a highly enjoyable read for readers of all ages.
My NetGalley review
This is a heartwarming graphic novel that beautifully explores theme where it tells the worth of family, belonging, friendship and finding one's place in the world. The watercolor artwork is charming and expressive, bringing both the characters and the wilderness setting to life. It is truly a delightful and emotionally rich Graphic novel, but meant for proper glossy Paperback because for an eBook its fonts are very small to read.
The standout character for me was Katya. Her carefree will and still a caring side for her only best friend Kodi tells a lot about value of a relationship. She brought warmth, strength and emotional depth to the story, making many of the most memorable moments even more impactful. Her interactions with Kodi added a genuine sense of care and understanding that elevated the narrative. Other casts like Sena, Joshua, Meema & Jessica were all good to go for the whole story.
While the story follows a familiar path at times, its heartfelt message and lovable cast make it an enjoyable and meaningful read. A touching adventure that reminds readers that home is not just a place—it's the people who accept and support us. This amazing graphic work gives an uplifting message which makes it a highly enjoyable read for readers of all ages.
My NetGalley review
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
⋆｡°✩ Rating : 3/5 ⋆｡°
I did not know this was a sequel but I soon realized this could be read as a standalone as well. I'd like to specify that I'm used to reading middle school graphic novels aimed at a younger audience, but this one feels very specifically written for children. The humor is quite juvenile, and the plotline is simple. That’s not inherently a bad thing, it just wasn’t what I expected. Based on the art style and the more serious featured themes (freedom, selfish wants vs. the greater good), I anticipated something with broader all-ages appeal.
✩ The art ✩
This graphic novel's heart is definitely in its beautiful watercolor illustrations, Jared Cullum is a talented artist, and the setting felt immersive and beautifully brought to life.
✩ The story ✩
I found the story to be a very simple and redundant plotline without much nuance. I would have loved to see Katya's character explored and futhermore develop. For children’s books, I personally tend to value stories that invite deeper reflection or explore meaningful themes in a more profound way. However, not every book needs to do that, and this one felt more like a light, fun reading experience.
Thank you to NetGalley, Jared Cullum and Top Shelf Productions for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I did not know this was a sequel but I soon realized this could be read as a standalone as well. I'd like to specify that I'm used to reading middle school graphic novels aimed at a younger audience, but this one feels very specifically written for children. The humor is quite juvenile, and the plotline is simple. That’s not inherently a bad thing, it just wasn’t what I expected. Based on the art style and the more serious featured themes (freedom, selfish wants vs. the greater good), I anticipated something with broader all-ages appeal.
✩ The art ✩
This graphic novel's heart is definitely in its beautiful watercolor illustrations, Jared Cullum is a talented artist, and the setting felt immersive and beautifully brought to life.
✩ The story ✩
I found the story to be a very simple and redundant plotline without much nuance. I would have loved to see Katya's character explored and futhermore develop. For children’s books, I personally tend to value stories that invite deeper reflection or explore meaningful themes in a more profound way. However, not every book needs to do that, and this one felt more like a light, fun reading experience.
Thank you to NetGalley, Jared Cullum and Top Shelf Productions for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
⋆.𐙚 ̊ it wasn’t perfect, but we had each other ⋆.𐙚 ̊
ᯓ★ Thanks to NetGalley and IDW Publishing for the Advanced Reader Copy in exchange for an honest review! ᯓ★
꣑ৎ Rating ꣑ৎ
☆ ☆ ☆
3.4 stars!
꣑ৎ Thoughts ꣑ৎ
I was browsing through books and then saw this graphic novel with that AMAZING cover and knew i had to read it! I mainly started this book because of the beautiful watercolour art style used and was very excited when NetGalley provided me with the arc! The story seemed to be lacking at some points but the watercolour illustrations made up for that! Kodi: A Place to Call Home is a lovely graphic novel about a young girl and a bear, who are frowned upon in their community. The book shows the struggles and thoughts of many characters as some fight to keep the bear while others simply care about wealth….
꣑ৎ Strengths ꣑ৎ
𑣲 the art style was super cute and really fitting for the book
𑣲the message brought out was really meaningful
𑣲 the characters had nice personalities
𑣲 it was a good length and perfect for a graphic novel
꣑ৎ Weaknesses ꣑ৎ
𑣲 some parts of the book didn’t make much sense
𑣲 it could have had more of a storyline
𑣲 the main parts of the story could have been less rushed
Overall this was such a cozy read and if you specifically read graphic novels for the nice art, then I would recommend this!
ᯓ★ Thanks to NetGalley and IDW Publishing for the Advanced Reader Copy in exchange for an honest review! ᯓ★
꣑ৎ Rating ꣑ৎ
☆ ☆ ☆
3.4 stars!
꣑ৎ Thoughts ꣑ৎ
I was browsing through books and then saw this graphic novel with that AMAZING cover and knew i had to read it! I mainly started this book because of the beautiful watercolour art style used and was very excited when NetGalley provided me with the arc! The story seemed to be lacking at some points but the watercolour illustrations made up for that! Kodi: A Place to Call Home is a lovely graphic novel about a young girl and a bear, who are frowned upon in their community. The book shows the struggles and thoughts of many characters as some fight to keep the bear while others simply care about wealth….
꣑ৎ Strengths ꣑ৎ
𑣲 the art style was super cute and really fitting for the book
𑣲the message brought out was really meaningful
𑣲 the characters had nice personalities
𑣲 it was a good length and perfect for a graphic novel
꣑ৎ Weaknesses ꣑ৎ
𑣲 some parts of the book didn’t make much sense
𑣲 it could have had more of a storyline
𑣲 the main parts of the story could have been less rushed
Overall this was such a cozy read and if you specifically read graphic novels for the nice art, then I would recommend this!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Kodi: A Place to Call Home seemed great, since I love animals of all kind! I didn't know this was actually a sequel, so I haven't read the first part. Gladly this didn't need it that much, but works as a standalone too. Katya and Kodi now live in a city, but can a bear be happy there? This made me sad as Katya is so selfish the whole time. Katya's school work goes downhill and her grandma wants to get rid of the bear as it doesn't belong in the city (and it doesn't). I don't like the T-shirt on it either. A zookeeper wants Kodi, but he's not a nice guy and of course Katya and the people around her want to save the day. For me Katya is annoying. The other characters are way much more interesting and actually understand something. Katya doesn't grown up or evolve as a character, which is annoying. I like the bear though, but it's heartbreaking to see him suffer.
The art is wonderful. The watercolor artwork is amazing and totally the best part in the comic. The setting is interesting and almost credible, but I don't like how the bear is treated like a pet. Otherwise the comic is quite nice and perhaps I'm not the target group either. So, a nice comic for kids I'd say.
The art is wonderful. The watercolor artwork is amazing and totally the best part in the comic. The setting is interesting and almost credible, but I don't like how the bear is treated like a pet. Otherwise the comic is quite nice and perhaps I'm not the target group either. So, a nice comic for kids I'd say.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This graphic novel follows the adventures of Katya and Kodi. Katya is getting in trouble for ignoring her responsibilities in school (unfinished assignments) and after an incident at school, her grandmother is given an ultimatum. Kodi, is unhappy in the city due to thoughtless peoples behaviours and misses nature. Enter Snice a slippery zookeeper and his long suffering assistant Jessica. Snice is determined to cage Kodi and exploit him. Katya and her friends and family must find a way to keep Kodi safe and happy. This was a sweet follow up with lots of lessons for young readers such as; finishing commitments before fun, friendship and doing the right thing for the betterment of your friends and the importance of family and honesty. In addition, I really loved the watercolour graphics which were well drawn and vivid. Overall, a wholesome read and would highly recommend.
Disclaimer: I received this book from NetGalley and IDW Publishing | Top Shelf Productions in exchange for a free and honest review.
Disclaimer: I received this book from NetGalley and IDW Publishing | Top Shelf Productions in exchange for a free and honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
In this graphic novel sequel to Kodi, Kodi lives with Katya and her meema in the city. There are complaints that Katya is not safe and that she is late to school and struggles to focus. Sena, from an animal sanctuary, comes by and offers Kodi a place. Meema considers the offer. During the science fair, Kodi was hiding behind the curtain and scared people. Someone from the zoo comes and wants Kodi, but Sena says the sanctuary is better and invites Katya and Kodi to visit. Meema is worried that Katya won’t trust her when she finds out she signed a contract for them to take Kodi and so Meema rips it up. Katya finds the contract and takes Kodi and runs away with him. What happens? Will Kodi end up back in the city, or will he go to the sanctuary?
Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for the eARC of this book. All opinions are my own.
Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for the eARC of this book. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I was so excited to see this book on NetGalley! Having absolutely loved the first Kodi, but wasn’t considering it a possibility for future installments. Always glad to be proven wrong though in these instances. And Cullum does not disappoint, same beautiful artwork and interesting characters. Honestly I was a little worried that it would be a sad story, you could call it a pet peeve, but if it’s fiction why do people always have to say goodbye to their non traditional pets? But as is illustrated in this book Kodi and Katya have a friendship not ownership, and as friends you do what’s best for each other. Also sometimes you aren’t saying goodbye, but making space to say hello to new friends. Absolutely wonderful sequel!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
With thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC.
This is a very cute comic book about a little girl and her bear, about friendship and letting go. I haven’t read the first book in the series but I got the gist: somehow this girl got a bear to be friends with.
The art is lively and energetic without losing clarity. The story… the story is definitely fun for kids. I personally found the whole “zoo director wants to have the bear” storyline superfluous. I know why it’s there but I found the “girl needs to learn her own wants can be detrimental for people she loves” more interesting. Sadly that one got resolved without much nuance.
Overall, I think this would be a fun duology to gift to a strong child reader or tween.
This is a very cute comic book about a little girl and her bear, about friendship and letting go. I haven’t read the first book in the series but I got the gist: somehow this girl got a bear to be friends with.
The art is lively and energetic without losing clarity. The story… the story is definitely fun for kids. I personally found the whole “zoo director wants to have the bear” storyline superfluous. I know why it’s there but I found the “girl needs to learn her own wants can be detrimental for people she loves” more interesting. Sadly that one got resolved without much nuance.
Overall, I think this would be a fun duology to gift to a strong child reader or tween.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you Netgalley , IDW Publishing and Top Shelf Productions and the artist for this beautiful, free electronic ARC of Kodi. Reviews are my own.
Kodi is a heart breaking and hope giving story of a lonely girl and her best bear friend. And how this bear friend wants to be part of the nature. The story is like water, simple yet beautiful. The art is amazing! I need more watercolour drawings. The colours are somehow both very lively and nostalgic. And this art has won and nominated to important awards! It is winner of the National Cartoonists Society's Reuben Award (Graphic Novels division) and nominated for two Eisner Awards.
Recommend this to get lost in watercolour...
Kodi is a heart breaking and hope giving story of a lonely girl and her best bear friend. And how this bear friend wants to be part of the nature. The story is like water, simple yet beautiful. The art is amazing! I need more watercolour drawings. The colours are somehow both very lively and nostalgic. And this art has won and nominated to important awards! It is winner of the National Cartoonists Society's Reuben Award (Graphic Novels division) and nominated for two Eisner Awards.
Recommend this to get lost in watercolour...
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you to NetGalley and IDW Publishing for providing a copy in exchange for an honest review.
I rate Kodi: A Place to Call Home 4.5 out of 5 stars. I’ve been looking forward to reading this since I loved the first book, and I’m glad to say that this was a charming continuation of Kodi’s story. While the book has plenty of sweet and heartwarming moments, it also brings in conflicts that add more depth to the story. I loved how the story balanced these challenges with its warmth and hopeful message, and the artwork is just as beautiful as always. I’d highly recommend this to children and children at heart who enjoy wholesome stories with lovely illustrations and memorable characters.
I rate Kodi: A Place to Call Home 4.5 out of 5 stars. I’ve been looking forward to reading this since I loved the first book, and I’m glad to say that this was a charming continuation of Kodi’s story. While the book has plenty of sweet and heartwarming moments, it also brings in conflicts that add more depth to the story. I loved how the story balanced these challenges with its warmth and hopeful message, and the artwork is just as beautiful as always. I’d highly recommend this to children and children at heart who enjoy wholesome stories with lovely illustrations and memorable characters.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The artwork is STUNNING. I could have gone through the story with no dialogue and been able to keep up because the art can tell the entire story by itself.
I want a bear named Kodi! The story is so sweet. They are in the city and everyone is trying to find ways to make Kodi go somewhere he's not meant to be. The emotions were heavy in this book, it deals with some heavy stuff you can open a dialogue about with your kids. Great job, and thanks NetGalley. This is a unique story and I'm glad its getting out into the world.
I want a bear named Kodi! The story is so sweet. They are in the city and everyone is trying to find ways to make Kodi go somewhere he's not meant to be. The emotions were heavy in this book, it deals with some heavy stuff you can open a dialogue about with your kids. Great job, and thanks NetGalley. This is a unique story and I'm glad its getting out into the world.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to NetGalley and IDW Publishing for providing me with an ARC copy of this book.
In similar form to the first Kodi volume, Kodi: A Place to Call Home is a beautiful work of art both in written and in watercolor form. Katya and Kodi’s story takes a pretty emotional turn in this second volume but still keeps the joyful tone of the first. Page breaks with incredible watercolor spreads add that this is not only a well executed story, but also an incredible piece of art.
Fun, emotional and heartfelt, this story is really worth the time for both young kids and adults.
In similar form to the first Kodi volume, Kodi: A Place to Call Home is a beautiful work of art both in written and in watercolor form. Katya and Kodi’s story takes a pretty emotional turn in this second volume but still keeps the joyful tone of the first. Page breaks with incredible watercolor spreads add that this is not only a well executed story, but also an incredible piece of art.
Fun, emotional and heartfelt, this story is really worth the time for both young kids and adults.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I want to thank NetGalley for an E-ARC!
I just read Kodi this morning. With it's light hearted cozy story in mind I jumped into the sequel excited. Only for a lot of the coziness strip away for a darker sadder story. The watercolor art work is just as beautiful as before. To be fair not every story with great themes needs to be happy. Not every sequel does either. It still has a lot of heart and
I just read Kodi this morning. With it's light hearted cozy story in mind I jumped into the sequel excited. Only for a lot of the coziness strip away for a darker sadder story. The watercolor art work is just as beautiful as before. To be fair not every story with great themes needs to be happy. Not every sequel does either. It still has a lot of heart and
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I did not know this was a sequel but i will definitely check book 1 out!
First of all I have to say that the art is amazing, so warm and fluid! I really took some time to appreciate the beauty of the watercolors. I also really liked the character design.
With that being said I felt like the story was very cute but also a bit rushed, I would have liked for some parts of the story to be extended.
First of all I have to say that the art is amazing, so warm and fluid! I really took some time to appreciate the beauty of the watercolors. I also really liked the character design.
With that being said I felt like the story was very cute but also a bit rushed, I would have liked for some parts of the story to be extended.
Read
July 16, 2026A much-needed sequel to the original book that completes the Pixar-like feel of the story while also pointing out the impracticalities of a bear living in Seattle. The watercolor illustrations once again shine, especially in the depictions of Seattle and Eastern Washington. But the subplot involving Snice has a more cartoonish feel, reminiscent of early Disney films like Dumbo, and the romance subplot between Sena and Joshua is less successful as he initially comes across as more creepy than charmingly bumbling.
Thanks to Top Shelf Productions and NetGalley for the advance reading copy.
Thanks to Top Shelf Productions and NetGalley for the advance reading copy.
May 22, 2026
Thank you netgalley for an e-arc of this gorgeous graphic novel in exchange for an honest review.
The artwork is stunning in this and I love the story. It’s a powerful story of how animals aren’t just pets, they are our friends and family too. Kodi might be a bear but he is a very loved one, just needing more nature in his life to feel happier.
The artwork is stunning in this and I love the story. It’s a powerful story of how animals aren’t just pets, they are our friends and family too. Kodi might be a bear but he is a very loved one, just needing more nature in his life to feel happier.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you, Netgalley for an advanced copy of this graphic novel for an honest review
This is an adorable short story of a little girl and a bear and the connection of friendship and love, but everyone around her and in the city are agaisnt the bear, I can see this being loved by children and adults & the art is beautifully done
This is an adorable short story of a little girl and a bear and the connection of friendship and love, but everyone around her and in the city are agaisnt the bear, I can see this being loved by children and adults & the art is beautifully done
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
A beautiful story that reminds us that wild animals should live in their natural habitats and eat proper diets, even if they are your only friend.
I may or may not have cried at the end of this book.
I may or may not have cried at the end of this book.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This book is absolutely STUNNING.
The story is beautiful an accurate. It handles friendship, love, feelings of betrayal, a guideline on how animals must be treated. The drawings/paintings are nothing more than perfect.
Will definitely buy these books for my children
The story is beautiful an accurate. It handles friendship, love, feelings of betrayal, a guideline on how animals must be treated. The drawings/paintings are nothing more than perfect.
Will definitely buy these books for my children
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