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Lone Wolf
Maple the husky loves being the Parker family’s dog. She’s a valued member of the team, but strangers always seem to think she’s a wolf! It’s true: Maple can hunt, she can howl, and she can dig, just like wolves can. Oh, no! What if she is a wolf and doesn’t belong with her family, after all?
40 pages, Hardcover
First published May 12, 2020
2 people are currently reading
135 people want to read
About the author
Sarah Kurpiel
7 books31 followersSarah Kurpiel is a librarian and picture book author/illustrator from the Midwest. Her stories are inspired by animals, nature, and everyday life. Instagram: @sarah.kurpiel
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 91 reviews
May 23, 2020
4.5 stars
Lone Wolf, the picture book debut of author and illustrator Sarah Kurpiel, tells the story of a beautiful husky dog named Maple who begins to question who she is as people outside her family make assumptions about her being a wolf. Already the recipient of a starred review from School Library Journal, and commendations from Kirkus Reviews, Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books, and Booklist, Lone Wolf is making a name for itself as a strong- and extremely lovable!- debut. And indeed, Lone Wolf is a fantastically charming picture book.
As the story opens, readers see a darling husky dog named Maple sitting in her family's kitchen. We learn that Maple loves being part of the Parker family: as the family dog, she plays tug-of-war with Jax and reads with Avery (her human brother and sister, respectively), and gets to enjoy lots of (extra) treats and (extra) long walks. Maple is cheerful and content in her life...but, for some reason, when she is out with her family and meeting strangers, people keep commenting about her looking like a wolf! Making assumptions mostly based on Maple's appearance, strangers wonder and remark that Maple sure does seem like a wolf, and ask whether the Parker family is certain Maple isn't part-wolf. The questions and comments lead Maple to doubt herself and her place as her family's dog: what if the way she digs (for flowers!), hunts (for stuffed toys!), and loudly howls (for biscuits!) really are how a wolf behaves? And if Maple is, in fact, a wolf, that means that her life cannot be with her beloved family anymore! What follows is a trip to the unknown (and lonely) outdoors that leads to a much welcome and satisfying ending. Kurpiel's illustrative style is lovely and immensely appealing: the focused colour palette and the calm yet visually interesting spreads (truly delightful!) allow Maple to remain the center focus of the story, whether in husky close-ups or in an array of fluid canine movements and actions. The text itself is also streamlined- lending itself beautifully to being read aloud- flowing smoothly from opening to climax to ending, working terrifically in tandem with the illustrations to tell a complete yet lighthearted story about family and fitting in.
Overall, Lone Wolf is a winning treat of a picture book. Children and adults alike will likely fall in love with not only how adorable and immediately likable Maple (and her family) is, but also take heart in her journey of finding a happy place of self-assurance and belonging. Readers who have read and enjoyed stories such as Odd Dog Out, Quackers, Room for Bear, Mabel: A Mermaid Fable, or Not Quite Narwhal, may especially love Sarah Kurpiel's sweet and heartwarming debut.
Extras: Be sure to check out this Book Trailer post on Mr. Schu Reads with Sarah Kurpiel! There is also a link to a fabulous Lone Wolf printable activity kit via HarperKids, as well as GIFs from Lone Wolf via Sarah Kurpiel's GIPHY page!
I received a copy of this title courtesy of Sarah Kupriel and Greenwillow Books in exchange for an honest review. All opinions and comments are my own.
May 23, 2020
From her first appearance in LONE WOLF, adorable Maple the husky melted my heart. With charming storytelling and captivating illustrations, Sarah Kurpiel has created a sweet exploration of identity and belonging. Everyone tells Maple the husky that she looks like a wolf. Maple’s loyal family knows she’s a dog, not a wolf—and they patiently explain this to everyone they meet. But Maple? Well…eventually she begins to wonder if she has it wrong. Is she meant to be in the wild? As we follow Maple away from her family and into the woods, we discover that who we are is defined by who we love, and by who loves us. Kurpiel’s art is refreshing and authentic. I love her hand-sketched style, her command of perspective, and her use of negative space. This story is so full of heart and charm, your picture-book shelf will feel empty without it. Must have! The kiddos will LOVE it.
June 18, 2021
Very cute story and the artwork is adorable! This story is about a dog, who wonders whether or not she is a wolf or a dog member of the Parker family. I especially liked that one member of the Parker family is in a wheelchair and plays a good sized supporting role.
March 10, 2021
Maple is a husky and beloved family pet, but after hearing so many people ask her owners if she is a wolf. Maple decides she should take the opportunity an open gate provides to see if she really is a wolf.
A humorous look at how labels and people's comments can affect others. And a celebration of a family dog. I like that the girl in Maple's family is in a wheel chair. That isn't pointed out or mentioned, it is just treated like normal. I can see kids in wheel chairs who have dogs loving that aspect of this story. The illustrations are adorable, and there's just the right touch of subtle humor in the text and illustrations. Recommended to dog lovers and perhaps classes that need to talk about labels and what to do with others' comments.
A humorous look at how labels and people's comments can affect others. And a celebration of a family dog. I like that the girl in Maple's family is in a wheel chair. That isn't pointed out or mentioned, it is just treated like normal. I can see kids in wheel chairs who have dogs loving that aspect of this story. The illustrations are adorable, and there's just the right touch of subtle humor in the text and illustrations. Recommended to dog lovers and perhaps classes that need to talk about labels and what to do with others' comments.
June 29, 2020
Short and simple story about Maple the husky, who is often mistaken for a wolf, and her foray into trying to be a wolf for a day. Central family depicted is White, and one of the children uses a power wheelchair.
Themes: Dogs, Belonging, Family
Age range: 3-6
Themes: Dogs, Belonging, Family
Age range: 3-6
April 11, 2022
Big thanks to my friend, Emily, for the front porch delivery! I love Lone Wolf! Great to see illustrations of a character who uses a wheelchair BY an author-illustrator who uses a wheelchair. Sometimes wheelchair illustrations feel phony.
October 8, 2023
Maple isn't quite like other dogs. In fact, he may secretly be a wolf. Unable to bear other people's judgement, Maple runs away from home, looking for where he truly belongs.
Yup, this book is as cute as it looks from the cover. It makes a good point while retaining its doggie humor.
Yup, this book is as cute as it looks from the cover. It makes a good point while retaining its doggie humor.
June 7, 2021
Beautiful illustrations and lovely story. <3
August 20, 2020
A happy husky named Maple experiences an identity crisis when people mistake her for a wolf. Is she a wolf? Her family tries scientific explanations and point out the unique features of the two breeds to those who ask, but still she wonders. The gate is left open one day and Maple embarks on a journey of self-discovery. She spends a day in the forrest pretending to be a wild wolf. By the end of the day Maple knows the answer to the question of her identity; she can choose who she is and where she belongs--which is safe in a house with her favorite pack (family).
This is a great story for anyone who wonders if they fit in, but most especially for adopted children who may wonder what life would be like with a different "pack". Reading this book with an adopted child, or one who is not, is an opening for positive discussion about what makes an individual part of a family or group. Is belonging based on genetics? Genetically all dogs are descended from wolves; or is it the family you choose, as Maple does in this story. The message is that we are more than what we are born to be or what our DNA might say about us. We are even more than how we appear. Maple can choose, as can we all, what she wants to do and who she wants to be. A real family is made, not born, whether you share biology or not. Maple's pack is not even her same species, but she knows she belongs with them.
This is a great story for anyone who wonders if they fit in, but most especially for adopted children who may wonder what life would be like with a different "pack". Reading this book with an adopted child, or one who is not, is an opening for positive discussion about what makes an individual part of a family or group. Is belonging based on genetics? Genetically all dogs are descended from wolves; or is it the family you choose, as Maple does in this story. The message is that we are more than what we are born to be or what our DNA might say about us. We are even more than how we appear. Maple can choose, as can we all, what she wants to do and who she wants to be. A real family is made, not born, whether you share biology or not. Maple's pack is not even her same species, but she knows she belongs with them.
June 20, 2020
People want to tell the MC that he is a wolf! He looks like a wolf, so therefore...wolf! (How many times in life have y'all been told that you must be ____ because of whatever in your life? It's infuriating!) This poor dog becomes so confused that he eventually runs away from home and tries to be something that he isn't, a wolf! Thankfully, his pack is waiting for him when he makes his way back to them. Awww, cue the feels.
The illustrations are wonderful and added to by the the positive portrayal of a differently able person (based on the author's life perhaps?).
The illustrations are wonderful and added to by the the positive portrayal of a differently able person (based on the author's life perhaps?).
November 16, 2020
This story really resonated with me. I used to walk my mother-in-law’s Malamute. He was huge! Everyone thought he was a wolf. This sweet picture book is about a Husky named Maple who is often mistaken for a wolf. The Parker family repeatedly explains that Maple is not a wolf, but Maple starts to have doubts. She ventures off into the wilderness to be a wolf, but soon discovers she truly belongs with her human pack. LONE WOLF’S well-paced text and adorable illustrations are sure to capture the hearts of dog lovers big and small.
May 26, 2020
Maple the husky is the adorable and beloved family dog. But she looks a lot like a wolf. So much so that people are always mistaking her for a wolf. And...she can do lots of things that wolves do. Is it possible that she is a wolf? When Maple questions her identity and place in the family, she takes off for the place wolves belong -- the wild. But the wild is a tough and lonely place for Maple. She misses her pack! Beautifully illustrated and heartwarming story about identity and belonging!
May 4, 2020
Reviewed for School Library Journal on 5/1/2020. Starred review.
VERDICT: With lovely cadenced phrasing, and a winning heroine, this delightful debut picture book is strongly recommended for purchase
VERDICT: With lovely cadenced phrasing, and a winning heroine, this delightful debut picture book is strongly recommended for purchase
June 13, 2020
The importance of finding out who we really are and developing confidence in that despite what others around us may say or try to make us feel. A powerful concept but sometimes difficult to teach children. This book does a beautiful job starting a great conversation.
July 27, 2020
A husky loves being part of the family but starts to wonder if he is a wolf after hearing comments. He runs off to the woods and realizes that he's a Parker and belongs at home.
Charming illustrations.
Charming illustrations.
October 9, 2020
Maple is the Parker’s family dog but so many people question if she is really a wolf and if she belongs that Maple starts to wonder too. A heartwarming story of family, believing in yourself, and belonging. Don’t miss this important conversation starter complete with beautiful illustrations.
July 17, 2020
At first glance, Lone Wolf by debut author Sarah Kurpiel is a sweet story about a husky dog questioning and then recognizing her real place within her real family. However, upon closer examination of this story and the illustrations, it is so much more than just a story about a dog finding her place in her pack. Read on to see a few things that make Lone Wolf so delightful!
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A big thank you to Harper Kids for sharing this book with our family in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions of this book are my own. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
First, and most important to the story, is that the girl in the story, Avery, uses a power wheelchair to get around, just as Kurpiel herself does! When thinking about diverse and inclusive bookshelves, we need to remember to include books featuring children with various disabilities, living their normal lives, too! ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Then, take some time to think about the bigger message of the story. Yes, this is a story about a dog finding her place in her family pack. But, the deeper meaning here will likely resonate with all children, who at some point might wonder if they would have fit better in a different family. Ultimately, the love we have for the members of our pack is what makes our family, not what we have in common with them (or what others think we should have in common...).
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Finally, as you delight in this sweet story and the inclusion of a person with a physical disability making her way through everyday life, be sure to notice the other incredible details that Kurpiel hides in the illustrations throughout the story! Keen observers (and patient dog owners) will love the dog toy chewed such that its stuffing is falling out, the nocturnal eyes peering out from a hole in the tree, the fact that the small print in a diagram confirms that Maple is usually thinking about food, or the wheel-chair using bull terrier in the endpapers.
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
A big thank you to Harper Kids for sharing this book with our family in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions of this book are my own. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
First, and most important to the story, is that the girl in the story, Avery, uses a power wheelchair to get around, just as Kurpiel herself does! When thinking about diverse and inclusive bookshelves, we need to remember to include books featuring children with various disabilities, living their normal lives, too! ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Then, take some time to think about the bigger message of the story. Yes, this is a story about a dog finding her place in her family pack. But, the deeper meaning here will likely resonate with all children, who at some point might wonder if they would have fit better in a different family. Ultimately, the love we have for the members of our pack is what makes our family, not what we have in common with them (or what others think we should have in common...).
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Finally, as you delight in this sweet story and the inclusion of a person with a physical disability making her way through everyday life, be sure to notice the other incredible details that Kurpiel hides in the illustrations throughout the story! Keen observers (and patient dog owners) will love the dog toy chewed such that its stuffing is falling out, the nocturnal eyes peering out from a hole in the tree, the fact that the small print in a diagram confirms that Maple is usually thinking about food, or the wheel-chair using bull terrier in the endpapers.
May 6, 2020
See my full review here: https://www.yabookscentral.com/kidsfi...
LONE WOLF is an adorable picture book about belonging and family. Maple loves her family, reading with Avery, playing tug-of-war with Jax, and conning Mom and Dad out of extra treats and extra-long walks. However, other people are frequently pointing out that Maple looks like a wolf. They ask it so much that Maple begins to wonder if she belongs in the wild. One day, when the gate is left open, Maple runs to the woods.
Once on her own, Maple realizes that she belongs with the family. She is not a wolf, she is a Parker. She heads home to find her pack and her place in the world.
What I loved: The artwork here is lovely and whimsical with many different images adding to the appeal, such as descriptive images with arrows, maps with trails, and even a close up of Maple's face. I also really appreciated the inclusion of a character in a wheelchair (Avery), as that representation is so important. The messages of belonging and family are lovely and conveyed so well by the story of this family pet.
The word-to-picture ratio is relatively low, with only a few sentences on each page and plenty of details in the illustrations to keep children engaged. This is great for toddler through elementary school-aged children.
Final verdict: A lovely story of belonging and family, LONE WOLF is a delightful and beautifully illustrated picture book that will certainly speak to young readers.
Please note that I received an ARC. All opinions are my own.
LONE WOLF is an adorable picture book about belonging and family. Maple loves her family, reading with Avery, playing tug-of-war with Jax, and conning Mom and Dad out of extra treats and extra-long walks. However, other people are frequently pointing out that Maple looks like a wolf. They ask it so much that Maple begins to wonder if she belongs in the wild. One day, when the gate is left open, Maple runs to the woods.
Once on her own, Maple realizes that she belongs with the family. She is not a wolf, she is a Parker. She heads home to find her pack and her place in the world.
What I loved: The artwork here is lovely and whimsical with many different images adding to the appeal, such as descriptive images with arrows, maps with trails, and even a close up of Maple's face. I also really appreciated the inclusion of a character in a wheelchair (Avery), as that representation is so important. The messages of belonging and family are lovely and conveyed so well by the story of this family pet.
The word-to-picture ratio is relatively low, with only a few sentences on each page and plenty of details in the illustrations to keep children engaged. This is great for toddler through elementary school-aged children.
Final verdict: A lovely story of belonging and family, LONE WOLF is a delightful and beautifully illustrated picture book that will certainly speak to young readers.
Please note that I received an ARC. All opinions are my own.
April 20, 2020
What a great book. It's about a dog who keeps hearing people wonder if she is really a wolf, so she tries out life "as a wolf" and realizes that labels are ridiculous and she belongs with her pack--her family. The story is told with simple but effective language, good story tension that kept me turning the page, and emotional drama with a satisfying ending. I could see my family reading this over and over, especially since they love dogs and the endpapers alone would keep them fascinated (lots of dogs!). I enjoyed the style and aesthetic of the illustrations, especially an impactful double page spread where the dog's face is so close-up it is abstracted to just a triangle and three ovals.
One thing I would be remiss in not pointing out and applauding is that the author/Illustrator, Sarah Kurpiel, reveals in her author bio that she uses a wheelchair, and one of the characters in the book also uses a wheelchair. But this goes without comment in the book, making it completely normalized. Bravo for this type of graceful inclusion.
One thing I would be remiss in not pointing out and applauding is that the author/Illustrator, Sarah Kurpiel, reveals in her author bio that she uses a wheelchair, and one of the characters in the book also uses a wheelchair. But this goes without comment in the book, making it completely normalized. Bravo for this type of graceful inclusion.
June 30, 2020
Maple is a normal husky who likes to do normal dog things like playing tug-of-war, reading on the couch with his girl, getting extra treats, and going for long walks. But people always make comments about how much Maple looks like a wolf. Maple can do wolf-like things and she begins to wonder, maybe she really is a wolf?
Why you need to add Lone Wolf to your shelves:
1. Facts about huskies and wolves are included in the text by the use of illustrated charts.
2. The simple line drawings are rich with details done in a soft and fresh color palate. Kids will enjoy looking at each spread and will be inspired to draw their own pictures.
3. I love books with maps and Maple’s journey is shown with dashes that flow through the pages.
4. This is a perfect kid-friendly read-aloud. Kids empathize with Maple and cheer her on as she finally realizes that home with her family is where she belongs.
5. The daughter in the family is shown in a power wheelchair. Her disability is not shown as a hurdle to overcome but just as a part of life in this lovely family story.
July 16, 2020
It has never been more apparent how fortunate we humans are to be a part of our canine companions' packs. Their constant presence and unwavering unique personalities are a source of comfort. Their responses to each day's sensory experiences provide a perpetual parade of expected and unexpected results. In other words, dogs are a source of hope.
Two titles released in spring of this year focus on these wonderful creatures who have chosen to spend their lives with us. The first, Lone Wolf (Greenwillow Books, an imprint of HarperCollinsPublishers, May 19, 2020) written and illustrated by Sarah Kurpiel, is a debut picture book looking at how opinions of others can influence us. When a seed of doubt is planted, sometimes we need a shift in our outlook to realize we are exactly where we need to be.
My full recommendation: https://librariansquest.blogspot.com/...
Two titles released in spring of this year focus on these wonderful creatures who have chosen to spend their lives with us. The first, Lone Wolf (Greenwillow Books, an imprint of HarperCollinsPublishers, May 19, 2020) written and illustrated by Sarah Kurpiel, is a debut picture book looking at how opinions of others can influence us. When a seed of doubt is planted, sometimes we need a shift in our outlook to realize we are exactly where we need to be.
My full recommendation: https://librariansquest.blogspot.com/...
February 24, 2021
Picture book. Maple is a husky dog that lives with the Parker family and often gets mistaken for a wolf. There is even a diagram comparing a wolf and a husky on one page spread. Eventually, Maple takes advantage of the open gate and sees if she really does belong in the wild. But howling and hunting are different when she's all alone, and when it's time for her evening walk all she wants to do is find her pack.
A cute simple story that celebrates the comfort of family and routine, this is a good choice for read-aloud for toddler and preschool aged children. The pictures include one family member in a power wheelchair. The adorable endpapers made me think of the opening scene to the animated 101 Dalmatians movie with all of the different dogs walking by.
A cute simple story that celebrates the comfort of family and routine, this is a good choice for read-aloud for toddler and preschool aged children. The pictures include one family member in a power wheelchair. The adorable endpapers made me think of the opening scene to the animated 101 Dalmatians movie with all of the different dogs walking by.
April 21, 2020
What a delightful and stunningly illustrated book about individuality, belonging and self-acceptance!
Maple is the Parker family's pet dog, except she doesn't look like a 'regular' dog. Maple is a husky, and everyone keeps confusing her for a wolf - which in turn confuses Maple! Wolves are meant to be wild; they don't live in houses with people. So one day when the gate is left ajar, Maple ventures alone to the woods and seeks to discover her rightful place in the world.
This is a beautiful book. The illustrations are sublime - the endpapers! The cover! Honestly, it's so gorgeous. And the story is charming, warm and full of heart. A real treasure. <3
Maple is the Parker family's pet dog, except she doesn't look like a 'regular' dog. Maple is a husky, and everyone keeps confusing her for a wolf - which in turn confuses Maple! Wolves are meant to be wild; they don't live in houses with people. So one day when the gate is left ajar, Maple ventures alone to the woods and seeks to discover her rightful place in the world.
This is a beautiful book. The illustrations are sublime - the endpapers! The cover! Honestly, it's so gorgeous. And the story is charming, warm and full of heart. A real treasure. <3
July 11, 2020
Dog Story + Acceptance Theme = Perfect! LONE WOLF is a wonderful story of acceptance. Readers will follow an adorable family husky on her adventure to explore her true identity, only to discover she knew where she belonged all along. In a time when we could all use a little more acceptance, Kurpiel delivers on everything from the storyline to the beautiful illustrations which highlight diversity on many levels. Enjoy!
August 5, 2020
LONE WOLF is a charming story about Maple, a dog who wonders if she might be a wolf, based on the comments she overhears. She strikes out on her own, determined to live the wolf lifestyle, however, she realizes it isn't all it's cracked up to be. Themes of self-acceptance and belonging make this a great addition for any child's bookshelf. The author/illustrator has done a great job with fun little details throughout the entire book that will ensure kids pore over its pages.
September 19, 2020
A delightful picture book about a husky named Maple who is constantly mistaken for a wolf. Her family tries to set the record straight, but confusion persists. When Maple gets a chance to explore, all is made clear once and for all about who and where Maple should be. This is a sweet story about identity and family but also of the joy of finding your pack. This title will pair well with Wiener Wolf by Jeff Crosby.
November 29, 2020
Lone Wolf's underlying theme of family and belonging really resonated with me as a reader. Sarah's book begins by showing us how Maple fits into the Parker's life but when Maple starts to doubt if she truly belongs with a family she seeks to find out if she belongs somewhere else. However, Maple soon finds out that she does truly belong with the Parker family. Sarah Kurpiel text matches perfectly with her illustration. Lone Wolf is sure to become a modern day classic.
January 7, 2021
I liked the story but loved the illustrations. I look forward to seeing more from this author/illustrator in the future.
It also brought to mind all the things I've read and seen about dogs and wolves (and dogs I've known which were part wolf)... and the concomitant changes in physical characteristics which come with selective breeding for temperament. Lots to think about, somehow it all tapped into my fascination with and love for animals.
It also brought to mind all the things I've read and seen about dogs and wolves (and dogs I've known which were part wolf)... and the concomitant changes in physical characteristics which come with selective breeding for temperament. Lots to think about, somehow it all tapped into my fascination with and love for animals.
January 10, 2021
Maple is a husky who has an identity crisis when the people of the neighborhood continually ask if she's a wolf. After a brief and not-so-fun foray in the woods, Maple realizes that she is most definitely not a wolf and returns home to her family. This story was cute and had some facts about wolves and huskies cleverly woven in. This story gets an extra star for featuring a character, Avery, who is in a wheelchair.
April 14, 2020
This is a lovely story about finding your pack and being true to yourself. As Maple is the Parker's family dog and very happy with that arrangement. But non-family members begin to question whether she is a wolf, eventually leading Maple to question who she really is. This identity crisis leads Maple on a journey of self-discovery and ultimately right to where she belongs: with her pack.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 91 reviews