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Waluk: The Great Journey
Waluk #2: The Great Journey
Wáluk and Eskimo are two inseparable bears. Wáluk is very young and Eskimo is very old. Between the two they've found a way to survive in an extremely hostile environment, combining the agility of the younger with the experience of the older. When Eskimo decides they should go further north in search of better hunting, they set off on a great journey neither are truly prepared for...
A heartwarming, fun and funny adventure that spotlights the impact of global warming and mankind moving into wildlands, forcing nature to find new ground to thrive.
A heartwarming, fun and funny adventure that spotlights the impact of global warming and mankind moving into wildlands, forcing nature to find new ground to thrive.
128 pages, Hardcover
Published March 9, 2021
57 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
February 18, 2021
A collection of stories about an old polar bear called Eskimo, and a young one called Waluk, living in the Arctic.
The stories are about survival, about protecting eachother, about helping others, about being wary of humans.
The stories have the tendency to go out like a wet fart, just sort of ending. There's one particular story about an AI driven drone that's more sci-fi than anything else, and it's just weird tonally.
The last story is the best - a human wants to kill his sleigh dogs, because he wants to leave the Arctic. The bears team up with an owl to save them, and it all becomes a bit mystical, which sort of works. And it has an actual ending, albeit a curious one.
One thing that is uniformly great, is the art. It teeters on the edge of cute (especially Waluk), but still keeps some of the 'wildness' of the animals.
(Picked up an ARC through Edelweiss)
The stories are about survival, about protecting eachother, about helping others, about being wary of humans.
The stories have the tendency to go out like a wet fart, just sort of ending. There's one particular story about an AI driven drone that's more sci-fi than anything else, and it's just weird tonally.
The last story is the best - a human wants to kill his sleigh dogs, because he wants to leave the Arctic. The bears team up with an owl to save them, and it all becomes a bit mystical, which sort of works. And it has an actual ending, albeit a curious one.
One thing that is uniformly great, is the art. It teeters on the edge of cute (especially Waluk), but still keeps some of the 'wildness' of the animals.
(Picked up an ARC through Edelweiss)
February 26, 2021
Stories following a young polar bear, Waluk, and his mentor, Eskimo, as they traverse the Arctic. Waluk learns how to take care of himself and Eskimo as Eskimo is slowing down. They come across other animals and humans on their journeys. Humans are certainly not presented in a good light here and there are constant environmental messages. The art is very good and children will be entertained by Waluk's journeys.
Received a review copy from Magnetic Press and Edelweiss. All thoughts are my own and in no way influenced by the aforementioned.
Received a review copy from Magnetic Press and Edelweiss. All thoughts are my own and in no way influenced by the aforementioned.
February 21, 2021
That is not at all what I was expecting.
It's basically just a comic book -- or a graphic novel -- without any real plot or meaning to convey. It's a story of a couple polar bears doing polar bear stuff.
There isn't much to say about it. Or rather, there isn't much good to say about it. The casual banter was awkwardly written.
You win some, you lose some. I'm moving on to something more weighty.
It's basically just a comic book -- or a graphic novel -- without any real plot or meaning to convey. It's a story of a couple polar bears doing polar bear stuff.
There isn't much to say about it. Or rather, there isn't much good to say about it. The casual banter was awkwardly written.
You win some, you lose some. I'm moving on to something more weighty.
Read
September 16, 2021Global warming's impact is something I think about daily. I still dwell on those painful, heartbreaking articles of polar bears unable to find ice to run/hunt on and they just have to keep swimming until they can find somewhere to rest still haunt me. So, knowing that, I still started this graphic novel figuring it would make me sad. And it does. But the bond of the bears is really lovely, the art is great, and these are important topics.
I would also direct readers towards: An Angry Earth, The Wump World and The Lorax.
Thank you Netgalley for the ARC.
Blog | Twitter
I would also direct readers towards: An Angry Earth, The Wump World and The Lorax.
Thank you Netgalley for the ARC.
Blog | Twitter
April 19, 2021
This was an odd one, going back and forth from realism to SF to myth, from cartoon portrayals of humans and animals to realistic ecological destruction, from well crafted dialog to strange plot choices. I liked the art, which mirrored and balanced all of these dualities, but the plot felt off kilter a bit as if there were pieces of the story missing or if the writer couldn't decide if they were telling a parable or a realistic story. That said, the polar bear characters and other animals (especially the dogs) were engaging and the environmental message was pretty horrifying.
June 13, 2022
!!!!! E P I C !!!!!
February 28, 2021
English Review Below.
قصة دب صغير ورفيقه الدب العجوز في القطب الشمالي ومغامراتهما التي يلتقيان فيها بدبة أم وصغيريها وبومة حكيمة وبعض الكلاب والبشر الأشرار. أسلوب الرسم جميل جدا وبعض الصفحات كانت خلابة بالفعل. بالإضافة إلى مغامرات الدبين، تتحدث الرواية عن جشع البشر وكذلك تأثير تغيرات المناخ على البيئة القطبية ومستوى الثلج وحيوات تلك المخلوقات. أرشحها فعلا. كانت قصة مؤثرة وجميلة.
A story of two polar bears and their adventures in the arctic. Waluk and Eskimo, are a young and old bear pair, who encounter a mother bear and her cubs, some husky dogs, a wise owl and humans on their adventures in the arctic. I loved the art style and some of the full pages spreads were amazing. It shows the greed of humans and the effects of climate change on the ice and the lives of the animals in the arctic. It was touching and beautiful. I recommend it.
I thank Netgalley and Magnetic Press for the digital ARC.
قصة دب صغير ورفيقه الدب العجوز في القطب الشمالي ومغامراتهما التي يلتقيان فيها بدبة أم وصغيريها وبومة حكيمة وبعض الكلاب والبشر الأشرار. أسلوب الرسم جميل جدا وبعض الصفحات كانت خلابة بالفعل. بالإضافة إلى مغامرات الدبين، تتحدث الرواية عن جشع البشر وكذلك تأثير تغيرات المناخ على البيئة القطبية ومستوى الثلج وحيوات تلك المخلوقات. أرشحها فعلا. كانت قصة مؤثرة وجميلة.
A story of two polar bears and their adventures in the arctic. Waluk and Eskimo, are a young and old bear pair, who encounter a mother bear and her cubs, some husky dogs, a wise owl and humans on their adventures in the arctic. I loved the art style and some of the full pages spreads were amazing. It shows the greed of humans and the effects of climate change on the ice and the lives of the animals in the arctic. It was touching and beautiful. I recommend it.
I thank Netgalley and Magnetic Press for the digital ARC.
March 3, 2022
Two polar bears, young Waluk, and old Eskimo, go on an adventure while trying to survive in their natural habitat, which has been deeply impacted by the human race.
The creators try to promote an environment- and animal-friendly way of life, however, their story lacks the structure needed to address the problem at hand.
I would really like to say that Waluk is mostly a children's story, but there is a certain violent scene near the end of the book that gave me second thoughts as to who the target audience actually is.
The creators try to promote an environment- and animal-friendly way of life, however, their story lacks the structure needed to address the problem at hand.
I would really like to say that Waluk is mostly a children's story, but there is a certain violent scene near the end of the book that gave me second thoughts as to who the target audience actually is.
February 15, 2021
Waluk: The Great Journey is a middle grade graphic novel about a young orphaned polar bear, Waluk and his elder polar bear friend, Eskimo. The two polar bear friends encounter many Arctic animals on their journey in search of food which grows more sparse every year due to global warming. There are discussions amongst the animals about pollution, climate change, animal cruelty, and the evilness of humanity.
The illustrations are adorable throughout this graphic novel and the story had intentions to raise awareness of the devastating change humans have created on this planet. However, I would have liked to see the other side of humanity represented in this story, the side that is good-natured and does care about the planet and it’s inhabitants to set an example for children. I thought there could have been more evidence of how pollution and global warming jeopardizes more than the polar bears in search of food.
My main concern with this book was the opportunity missed with the scene of the discarded cargo container left behind and no consequences of that human error were mentioned when it plunged into the sea. It was just forgotten about and that’s a key moment to raise awareness that our actions as humans have an ecological impact on this planet instead of moving along in the story, especially when you’re trying to educate children about this very issue.
The ending felt…odd. It was neatly wrapped up like all is well without really addressing any of the issues brought up. Overall, it was visually pleasing, a good story about friendship and survivalism amongst the animals. The book needed to be more focused on the solutions to climate change for this book to be worth reading. Middle grade kids are already familiar with climate change, how can your story engage them to be part of the solution?
Thank you NetGalley for the digital ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Waluk: The Great Journey by Ana Miralles & Emilio Ruiz
Publishing on: March 9, 2021
Rating 2/5
The illustrations are adorable throughout this graphic novel and the story had intentions to raise awareness of the devastating change humans have created on this planet. However, I would have liked to see the other side of humanity represented in this story, the side that is good-natured and does care about the planet and it’s inhabitants to set an example for children. I thought there could have been more evidence of how pollution and global warming jeopardizes more than the polar bears in search of food.
My main concern with this book was the opportunity missed with the scene of the discarded cargo container left behind and no consequences of that human error were mentioned when it plunged into the sea. It was just forgotten about and that’s a key moment to raise awareness that our actions as humans have an ecological impact on this planet instead of moving along in the story, especially when you’re trying to educate children about this very issue.
The ending felt…odd. It was neatly wrapped up like all is well without really addressing any of the issues brought up. Overall, it was visually pleasing, a good story about friendship and survivalism amongst the animals. The book needed to be more focused on the solutions to climate change for this book to be worth reading. Middle grade kids are already familiar with climate change, how can your story engage them to be part of the solution?
Thank you NetGalley for the digital ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Waluk: The Great Journey by Ana Miralles & Emilio Ruiz
Publishing on: March 9, 2021
Rating 2/5
February 22, 2021
**Special thanks to Diamond Book Distributors for the gifted e-arc in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.**
“There are no dirty ships, just a sea full of secrets!”
If you know me, you know I have a thing for illustrated/animated animals. When I came across the advanced reader copy of Waluk from Diamond Book Distributors and Magnetic Press I could not resist and instantly put in my request. There is a backstory to Waluk set in another graphic novel that I did not read before this one. Even though this does well as a standalone, I think readers can gather a better appreciation of Waluk by reading this after.
Waluk is an adorable adventure between the young polar bear, Waluk. and the older polar bear, Eskimo. With themes of global warming, pollution, human interference, animal brutality and a sprinkle of human research with artificial intelligence (AI). There are a few different stories as this duo goes in search of new hunting grounds as resources get scarce.
The illustrations are adorable and show the playful side of Waluk and his companion. I especially liked the scene where they come in contact with the AI sent to gather data on the polar bear population and Waluk finds a new toy/friend. This portion was slightly sci-fi in nature compared to the tone of the graphic novel overall, but I really enjoyed the artistic creativity. Hands down my favorite aspect is the astrological story surrounding the Great Bear, Nanook, and the Great Dog, Tuhis. This unique plot is incorporated as the scenes progress and has a touching story about animal neglect and abuse. The level of reading is almost middle-grade in nature and very easy to follow. At times dialogue seems clipped or the transition is slightly rocky. I’m sure you can tell I loved the illustrations and expressive aspects of the polar bears and sled dogs.
I enjoyed Waluk’s world and his friends and look forward to checking out the original graphic novel of his origins in the future. I’d recommend this read to those who enjoy cute narratives with adorably rendered illustrations.
“There are no dirty ships, just a sea full of secrets!”
If you know me, you know I have a thing for illustrated/animated animals. When I came across the advanced reader copy of Waluk from Diamond Book Distributors and Magnetic Press I could not resist and instantly put in my request. There is a backstory to Waluk set in another graphic novel that I did not read before this one. Even though this does well as a standalone, I think readers can gather a better appreciation of Waluk by reading this after.
Waluk is an adorable adventure between the young polar bear, Waluk. and the older polar bear, Eskimo. With themes of global warming, pollution, human interference, animal brutality and a sprinkle of human research with artificial intelligence (AI). There are a few different stories as this duo goes in search of new hunting grounds as resources get scarce.
The illustrations are adorable and show the playful side of Waluk and his companion. I especially liked the scene where they come in contact with the AI sent to gather data on the polar bear population and Waluk finds a new toy/friend. This portion was slightly sci-fi in nature compared to the tone of the graphic novel overall, but I really enjoyed the artistic creativity. Hands down my favorite aspect is the astrological story surrounding the Great Bear, Nanook, and the Great Dog, Tuhis. This unique plot is incorporated as the scenes progress and has a touching story about animal neglect and abuse. The level of reading is almost middle-grade in nature and very easy to follow. At times dialogue seems clipped or the transition is slightly rocky. I’m sure you can tell I loved the illustrations and expressive aspects of the polar bears and sled dogs.
I enjoyed Waluk’s world and his friends and look forward to checking out the original graphic novel of his origins in the future. I’d recommend this read to those who enjoy cute narratives with adorably rendered illustrations.
August 5, 2021
Waluk is a young polar bear who treks through the frozen tundra with an older bear, Eskimo. They run across humans from time to time, and have adventures hunting for seals. They meet a ferocious mama polar bear with her cubs. Waluk talks to a dog who pulls a dogsled for his master, and tries to inspire him to pursue a free life in the wilderness instead of living in human chains.
I loved this cool graphic novel! The art work is really beautiful with all the mystery and allure of the North Pole. The story is exciting and balances both serious and funny scenes. I really loved the sweet friendship between Waluk and Eskimo. They rely on one another and Waluk learns a lot of wisdom from Eskimo.
I liked the depth of the themes and history in this book. There are old legends about the Great Nanook, a bear spirit who protects all bears, and Tuhis, the dog spirit who watches over dogs.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for a free and honest review. All the opinions stated here are my own true thoughts, and are not influenced by anyone.
I loved this cool graphic novel! The art work is really beautiful with all the mystery and allure of the North Pole. The story is exciting and balances both serious and funny scenes. I really loved the sweet friendship between Waluk and Eskimo. They rely on one another and Waluk learns a lot of wisdom from Eskimo.
I liked the depth of the themes and history in this book. There are old legends about the Great Nanook, a bear spirit who protects all bears, and Tuhis, the dog spirit who watches over dogs.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for a free and honest review. All the opinions stated here are my own true thoughts, and are not influenced by anyone.
February 2, 2021
An older male polar bear and the kid polar bear he's adopted go across the ice, stumbling on human encampments, a single mother polar bear with cubs, an owl, an abandoned cargo container, a drone... Yeah, I would prefer to give a plot summary, but the problem here is that what plot there is is exceedingly inconsequential. This was originally in two parts (itself spinning off from an origin story where the bears meet, which I think is why some markets call the second half of this Book 3), and there's no connection between the two chunks – the narrative more or less ignores half the characters vanishing. Smaller episodes, like the container falling off its ship, just happen off-camera, and conversations seem to begin and stop mid-flow. Greater than that is that there is neither the entertainment nor the moral to match the artwork – this looks great, but is empty of anything that is really enjoyable, and very poor in delivering its ecological message. One and a half stars.
March 22, 2021
'Waluk: The Great Journey' by Ana Maralles and Emilio Ruiz continues the journey of polar bears Waluk and his mentor Eskimo.
Young Waluk and old Eskimo are on the hunt for food, but the icebergs are melting and the seals seem to be getting scarce. They find a beached whale and a mother bear and her two cubs and they convince her to let them eat. They also find a pack of sled dogs that need their help and different kinds of humans, both dangerous and curious.
I didn't read the first volume, but didn't feel like I was lost. The animals have different and unique personalities, which I liked. The message is not lost, but I also didn't feel beat over the head with it. The art is nice too.
I received a review copy of this graphic novel from Diamond Book Distributors and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this graphic novel.
Young Waluk and old Eskimo are on the hunt for food, but the icebergs are melting and the seals seem to be getting scarce. They find a beached whale and a mother bear and her two cubs and they convince her to let them eat. They also find a pack of sled dogs that need their help and different kinds of humans, both dangerous and curious.
I didn't read the first volume, but didn't feel like I was lost. The animals have different and unique personalities, which I liked. The message is not lost, but I also didn't feel beat over the head with it. The art is nice too.
I received a review copy of this graphic novel from Diamond Book Distributors and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this graphic novel.
February 7, 2021
arc provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review
The messages about climate change in this were great and definitely something that more people need to be aware of! Especially with how it is affecting wildlife but other than that, this story fell flat for me.
I just grew bored at some points and did not enjoy some of the ways the plot went in this graphic novel.
I liked the art style! It kept me reading until the end but I wish I had a better experience with the actual storyline.
2/5 ⭐️
TW: animal abuse, death of an animal.
The messages about climate change in this were great and definitely something that more people need to be aware of! Especially with how it is affecting wildlife but other than that, this story fell flat for me.
I just grew bored at some points and did not enjoy some of the ways the plot went in this graphic novel.
I liked the art style! It kept me reading until the end but I wish I had a better experience with the actual storyline.
2/5 ⭐️
TW: animal abuse, death of an animal.
August 4, 2021
Waluk, a young polar bear, and an older companion named Eskimo roam through the contemporary Arctic, hunting and befriending other animals, and encountering stupid, thoughtless humans. The art is excellent but the text is often quite awkward, and the messages about the dangers of climate change are heavy-handed. Originally published in Spain.
September 2, 2021
Un comic precioso. Ilustraciones sencillas y claras y una historia que dice mucho de muchos temas: ecología, familia, economía, humanidad,...
August 5, 2022
3.25 ★
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"Waluk: The Great Journey" nos invita a seguir a dos osos polares, Waluk y Eskimo, mientras recorren el Ártico en busca de comida y hacen nuevos amigos.
Debo comenzar diciendo que la edición no menciona que es una segunda parte y -aunque no se pierde demasiado porque cada tomo es autoconclusivo, hay cierto background de la historia de Waluk que se siente flojo-.
El punto fuerte del libro es el arte, hay expresiones muy tiernas que contrastan a la perfección con las escenas más salvajes de los animales. El diseño de personajes es hermoso, aunque hay varios osos y perros, todos tienen un distintivo que nos hace identificarlos a golpe de vista.
En cuanto al argumento, se siente como varias historias cortas que se van conectando de a poco con otra historia que sucede de fondo. Y como algunas de las historias tienen más aire para desarrollarse que otras, se sienten desparejas. Sobre el final, hay un giro de trama que en cualquier otro libro sería insostenible, pero que en este caso, va en línea con el realismo mágico que empieza a entreverse en la narrativa.
Al final del día, es un libro muy bello con una historia interesante que lleva un mensaje de amistad y consciencia ambiental.
---
"Waluk: The Great Journey" follows Wáluk and Eskimo, two polar bears, while they haunt and have a few adventures.
When I picked this book I wasn't aware that is the second volume of a saga. Fortunately, it works well enough as a stand-alone. It's a compelling story that teaches us about friendship, found family, and freedom while commenting on global warming.
I felt like this book is made of several small arcs that have a bigger arc in the background. Some of the stories are more developed than others -the mother with the cubs or the wolves have more space story-wise, but the drone and the owl felt like an afterthought-, and the thread connecting the overall plot is two humans living in the Artic and being pretty evil.
Regarding the art, is impeccable. It conveys enough emotion to be expressive without losing the "wild" aspect of the animals. Really the strongest point of the book.
Overall, it's a nice story with a lot of great messages, even if it becomes a bit mystical in the end.
---
"Waluk: The Great Journey" nos invita a seguir a dos osos polares, Waluk y Eskimo, mientras recorren el Ártico en busca de comida y hacen nuevos amigos.
Debo comenzar diciendo que la edición no menciona que es una segunda parte y -aunque no se pierde demasiado porque cada tomo es autoconclusivo, hay cierto background de la historia de Waluk que se siente flojo-.
El punto fuerte del libro es el arte, hay expresiones muy tiernas que contrastan a la perfección con las escenas más salvajes de los animales. El diseño de personajes es hermoso, aunque hay varios osos y perros, todos tienen un distintivo que nos hace identificarlos a golpe de vista.
En cuanto al argumento, se siente como varias historias cortas que se van conectando de a poco con otra historia que sucede de fondo. Y como algunas de las historias tienen más aire para desarrollarse que otras, se sienten desparejas. Sobre el final, hay un giro de trama que en cualquier otro libro sería insostenible, pero que en este caso, va en línea con el realismo mágico que empieza a entreverse en la narrativa.
Al final del día, es un libro muy bello con una historia interesante que lleva un mensaje de amistad y consciencia ambiental.
---
"Waluk: The Great Journey" follows Wáluk and Eskimo, two polar bears, while they haunt and have a few adventures.
When I picked this book I wasn't aware that is the second volume of a saga. Fortunately, it works well enough as a stand-alone. It's a compelling story that teaches us about friendship, found family, and freedom while commenting on global warming.
I felt like this book is made of several small arcs that have a bigger arc in the background. Some of the stories are more developed than others -the mother with the cubs or the wolves have more space story-wise, but the drone and the owl felt like an afterthought-, and the thread connecting the overall plot is two humans living in the Artic and being pretty evil.
Regarding the art, is impeccable. It conveys enough emotion to be expressive without losing the "wild" aspect of the animals. Really the strongest point of the book.
Overall, it's a nice story with a lot of great messages, even if it becomes a bit mystical in the end.
August 12, 2022
*I received this book thanks to Netgalley and the publisher in exchange of honest reivew*
The story begins with Waluk and Eskimo, two very friendly polar bears. Waluk is very young while Eskimo is old but they both know how to help each other. On their way they meet an owl, a mother bear with her two cubs and a group of wolf dogs they have known for a long time. But things risk changing quickly if man gets in the way and with his ships and everything else brings with it pollution and fear for the animals that inhabit the pole.
What will happen to the two bears and their travel companions?
The characters are all animals and are very curious, adventurous and brave. I find Waluk the definitely best character who also warns others of everything humans bring with them.
The designs are amazing and I really like how they are all done, especially the bears, the light colors and the gorgeous illustrations.
The story is interesting, focusing a lot on climate change, pollution and the protection of animals, especially those in danger of extinction.
A book that aims to give a strong, incredible message and which is needed nowadays above all to raise awareness among the new generations.
A nice book, especially for the little ones.
The story begins with Waluk and Eskimo, two very friendly polar bears. Waluk is very young while Eskimo is old but they both know how to help each other. On their way they meet an owl, a mother bear with her two cubs and a group of wolf dogs they have known for a long time. But things risk changing quickly if man gets in the way and with his ships and everything else brings with it pollution and fear for the animals that inhabit the pole.
What will happen to the two bears and their travel companions?
The characters are all animals and are very curious, adventurous and brave. I find Waluk the definitely best character who also warns others of everything humans bring with them.
The designs are amazing and I really like how they are all done, especially the bears, the light colors and the gorgeous illustrations.
The story is interesting, focusing a lot on climate change, pollution and the protection of animals, especially those in danger of extinction.
A book that aims to give a strong, incredible message and which is needed nowadays above all to raise awareness among the new generations.
A nice book, especially for the little ones.
October 26, 2022
Segunda parte de este canto a la naturaleza en forma de aventura gráfica.
Continuamos el viaje con Wáluk y Esquimo, conociendo nuevos personajes, paisajes maravillosos y experiencias que pretenden protestar por el trato que le damos a la Madre Tierra.
La verdad, me ha encantado, se lo aconsejo a todo el mundo. Si tenéis un poquito de conciencia medioambiental, os va a encantar. Si os falta, quién sabe si al leerlo se os activará. Desde luego, no tenéis mucho que perder, en un rato se acaba y se quedan muchas sensaciones bastante tiempo después.
Continuamos el viaje con Wáluk y Esquimo, conociendo nuevos personajes, paisajes maravillosos y experiencias que pretenden protestar por el trato que le damos a la Madre Tierra.
La verdad, me ha encantado, se lo aconsejo a todo el mundo. Si tenéis un poquito de conciencia medioambiental, os va a encantar. Si os falta, quién sabe si al leerlo se os activará. Desde luego, no tenéis mucho que perder, en un rato se acaba y se quedan muchas sensaciones bastante tiempo después.
December 1, 2021
Honestly the stories in this were interesting but also at times really weird.
December 11, 2023
This is the one of the better junior graphic novels I have read, especially in the category of environmental issues. It doesn't preach to children, but provides fun characters and bizarre adventures to explore current issues. The plot is all over the place, but I can vibe with it. It has some slight commentary on freedom and what that means to different types of people. It's adorable and funny with some dark moments, but it's great for kids.
March 7, 2021
My thanks to Diamond Magnetic Press for making available a temporary digital review copy of ‘Waluk: the Great Journey’, illustrated by Ana Miralles with script by Emilio Ruiz. It was translated from the Spanish by Mike Kennedy and is intended for Middle Grade readers, approximately 9-12 years of age.
From Publishers: ‘Young Waluk and old Eskimo are two polar bears helping each other get by in the modern tundra. But food is growing scarce and their world is changing thanks to global warming and the human strangers who carelessly roam through their territory.
But these bears are optimistic and head out to find fertile hunting grounds, making friends and avoiding dangers along the way. There, Eskimo hopes to groom Waluk to be the worthy successor to the legendary Nanook.’
This was a delightful tale that includes two interconnected stories. The first, ‘The Great Journey’, has Waluk and Eskimo meet up with a protective mother polar bear and her two cubs. When she goes on a hunt she entrusts the older bears to look after the cubs. The second, ‘The Path of the Great Dog’ has them encounter Loki, an unusual AI, as well as a pack of sled dogs that are unaware of their master’s sinister plans for them.
I adored the charming art work by Ana Miralles, which beautifully captured the bears and their environment so well. It was quite whimsical and a few panels had me in tears with laughter, especially the adventure with the cubs and the shipping container (no spoilers) and Waluk’s enthusiastic playfulness with Loki, the AI that had been trying to record the bears.
Basically I loved this book, especially its artwork, and feel certain that it will delight young readers as well as their parents. It also is a volume that I can see being of interest to educators and librarians as its environmental message is presented in an accessible way with elements of folklore woven into the narrative.
Highly recommended.
From Publishers: ‘Young Waluk and old Eskimo are two polar bears helping each other get by in the modern tundra. But food is growing scarce and their world is changing thanks to global warming and the human strangers who carelessly roam through their territory.
But these bears are optimistic and head out to find fertile hunting grounds, making friends and avoiding dangers along the way. There, Eskimo hopes to groom Waluk to be the worthy successor to the legendary Nanook.’
This was a delightful tale that includes two interconnected stories. The first, ‘The Great Journey’, has Waluk and Eskimo meet up with a protective mother polar bear and her two cubs. When she goes on a hunt she entrusts the older bears to look after the cubs. The second, ‘The Path of the Great Dog’ has them encounter Loki, an unusual AI, as well as a pack of sled dogs that are unaware of their master’s sinister plans for them.
I adored the charming art work by Ana Miralles, which beautifully captured the bears and their environment so well. It was quite whimsical and a few panels had me in tears with laughter, especially the adventure with the cubs and the shipping container (no spoilers) and Waluk’s enthusiastic playfulness with Loki, the AI that had been trying to record the bears.
Basically I loved this book, especially its artwork, and feel certain that it will delight young readers as well as their parents. It also is a volume that I can see being of interest to educators and librarians as its environmental message is presented in an accessible way with elements of folklore woven into the narrative.
Highly recommended.
March 19, 2021
~ Thanks to NetGalley and Diamond Book Distributors / Magnetic Press for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review ~
*Please note that this review was delayed due to a period of health complications
I'm not entirely sure how to review "Waluk: The Great Journey." I'm assuming that it is a sequel to Mirallès' previous work, "Waluk," but as I haven't read that I can't confirm how similar in style the two graphic novels are. It felt like I was missing the main story and was instead reading some spin-off mini comics, sort of like how Disney's "Cinderella II" was just a collection of short movies that were based around characters from the first film. The art style was really nice and I can't say that I found the story entirely disinteresting, but I think lacking context from the first book diminished my experience of its sequel.
The target audience for this book also seems somewhat narrow; I'd say that kids between the ages of 8 and 11 would probably find some enjoyment from W:TGJ, especially if they are already interested in animals and/or the environment, but the depiction of guns, modern piracy, and animal cruelty may be a deterrent for some parents.
I am interestered in eventually reading "Waluk" to see the story that lead to this sequel. If it is presented as one straight narrative, my appreciation for W:TGJ may actually grow. On the other hand, if "Waluk" is broken up into sections like this was, there's a good chance that these books aren't my style.
*Please note that this review was delayed due to a period of health complications
I'm not entirely sure how to review "Waluk: The Great Journey." I'm assuming that it is a sequel to Mirallès' previous work, "Waluk," but as I haven't read that I can't confirm how similar in style the two graphic novels are. It felt like I was missing the main story and was instead reading some spin-off mini comics, sort of like how Disney's "Cinderella II" was just a collection of short movies that were based around characters from the first film. The art style was really nice and I can't say that I found the story entirely disinteresting, but I think lacking context from the first book diminished my experience of its sequel.
The target audience for this book also seems somewhat narrow; I'd say that kids between the ages of 8 and 11 would probably find some enjoyment from W:TGJ, especially if they are already interested in animals and/or the environment, but the depiction of guns, modern piracy, and animal cruelty may be a deterrent for some parents.
I am interestered in eventually reading "Waluk" to see the story that lead to this sequel. If it is presented as one straight narrative, my appreciation for W:TGJ may actually grow. On the other hand, if "Waluk" is broken up into sections like this was, there's a good chance that these books aren't my style.
March 5, 2021
*I received this book as an eARC from Magnetic Press via Edelweiss. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*
This book seems to have the intention of telling a story about how human impact and climate change have changed the natural world. But, I don't think it tells that story too well. This story also seems to use elements of First Nations and Indigenous culture and names in a way that I'm unsure whether it is done appropriately. This book seems to be created by two Europeans.
The animals in this book are portrayed in a fantastical way. And there's also an A.I. drone with a conscious?!? I was very confused by the world in which this book takes place.
I'm excited about more books for children that focus on the very present problem that is Climate Change. I do not recommend this book for that.
I give this book a 2/5. The art is beautiful and there's some fun interactions between the animals, but this book just did not land for me.
This book seems to have the intention of telling a story about how human impact and climate change have changed the natural world. But, I don't think it tells that story too well. This story also seems to use elements of First Nations and Indigenous culture and names in a way that I'm unsure whether it is done appropriately. This book seems to be created by two Europeans.
The animals in this book are portrayed in a fantastical way. And there's also an A.I. drone with a conscious?!? I was very confused by the world in which this book takes place.
I'm excited about more books for children that focus on the very present problem that is Climate Change. I do not recommend this book for that.
I give this book a 2/5. The art is beautiful and there's some fun interactions between the animals, but this book just did not land for me.
February 6, 2021
The story is set up more like a comic book than a children's book, with many panels and speech balloons, and the characters are more complex than the ones usually found in a children's picture book. However, the story doesn't have the kind of complex satire or clever edge that you usually see in graphic novels or children's books that are allegorical tales.
So, the book presents an interesting combination of two conventional formats. It's hard to say what the chosen audience is, but it's well-written and will certainly appeal to a niche demographic in between conventional children's books fans and comic book fans.
So, the book presents an interesting combination of two conventional formats. It's hard to say what the chosen audience is, but it's well-written and will certainly appeal to a niche demographic in between conventional children's books fans and comic book fans.
February 10, 2021
I received a digital ARC through NetGalley from Magnetic Press / Diamond Book Distributors. This two part graphic novel follows a young orphan polar bear named Waluk and an older bear named Eskimo. The artwork and the social commentary on climate change, pollution, and human interference was well done. However, the story felt clunky. While all the animal characters were endearing, all the humans were despicable. The owl mentions that most humans are good and I wanted to see a likable human character bring a little balance to all the idiocy. The ending was a bit odd for me and overall if the stories were more refined it would have conveyed the important messages better.
March 28, 2021
I really enjoyed this book which is a couple of stories put in to one compilation.
The illustrations were wonderful and really brought the book to life.
I started and finished it in the same evening to tonight and really enjoyed it.
The books well on many levels, the fight for survival, the impact of global warming, pollution to name a few - a lot was covered and these are only a few of the areas that could allow a book like this to be read at school and used as there would be plenty of discussion points.
It is 4 stars from me for this one - well written and enjoyable too - highly recommended!
The illustrations were wonderful and really brought the book to life.
I started and finished it in the same evening to tonight and really enjoyed it.
The books well on many levels, the fight for survival, the impact of global warming, pollution to name a few - a lot was covered and these are only a few of the areas that could allow a book like this to be read at school and used as there would be plenty of discussion points.
It is 4 stars from me for this one - well written and enjoyable too - highly recommended!
February 6, 2021
Waluk and Eskimo are two polar bears traveling together, keeping each other safe. Waluk is very young and Eskimo is very old. They travel together in search for seals but things aren’t so easy. With global warming and humans impacting their environment, we get to see how these two bears live and thrive. Written in a graphic novel, this was a quick and fun read. This is a great book about friendship.
Thank you NetGalley and Diamond Book Distributors for a copy of this book for an honest review.
Thank you NetGalley and Diamond Book Distributors for a copy of this book for an honest review.
March 31, 2021
Waluk is a good children's book, something that reminded me of 'Pride of Baghdad', only set in the Arctic this time. The story and dialogue felt a bit off at times. I really was anticipating something grim happening throughout the book but I am glad that this is a kid's book and mostly everything is pleasant. There are definitely panels that actually show the brutality of humans but it's almost unavoidable. Ana Mirallès art is one of the reasons I picked this book up. Also, the landscape format really did wonders for me.
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