This graphic novel series is a nice addition for those in the 10 and under age group (although my adult self also enjoyed learning about the animals). Perfect for reluctant readers, one can read this second book without having read the first Jackson’s Wilder Adventures.

Jackson Wilder is our young main character. He’s curious about the world and turns to his imaginary friend for answers. That friend is actually Irwin, his stuffed animal who is a Thylacine, an extinct Tasmanian marsupial.

Irwin uses a cardboard box portal that can take the two anywhere in the world. When Jackson loses a tooth Irwin takes him to exotic places where many animals have their own unique teeth. Readers follow along and learn about Nile Crocodiles who lose over 3,000 teeth in their lifetime; a bull shark in the Gulf on Mexico; and the Iguazu Falls next to Brazil, Paraguay, and Argentina. There you meet the unique Capybara.

In the second half, Jackson is having trouble sleeping. Irwin comes to the rescue again with a trip to Japan’s Yakushima Island. There they visit a 2-inch Ussuri Tube-Nosed Bat who can sleep for months at a time. Next up are the Kanai Fjords in Alaska for a rare look at a Wood Frog. Finally they portal off to the Mojave Desert to see Little Pocket Mice.

The conversations Jackson has with Irwin are often funny and all of the illustrations are appealing in their colorfully, bold format.

In between meeting the animals are visual puzzles, five in all that add even more appeal. Jackson’s Wilder Adventures #2 would make a great companion on those summer road trips. Thanks to publisher PAPERCUTZ for introducing me to Jackson and Irwin and their fun adventures.

Writer/Artist – Sarah Davidson

Sarah Davidson is a comic book illustrator and colorist from Savannah, GA currently working on her MFA in Sequential Art. When Sarah isn’t drawing comics, you can find her cuddling on the couch with her too many pets and watching feel-good cooking competition shows.

Quote:

“I’m absolutely thrilled to share the second of Jackson’s Wilder Adventures with everyone! This volume is even more full of cute animals and exciting locations, and I can’t wait for young readers to get swept up in Jackson’s newest and wildest adventure!” – Writer/Artist, Sarah Davidson

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

It’s almost time for another Marvelous Middle Grade Monday. Won’t you join us? It’s here I share highlights from other individuals blogging about middle grade books. Many of the posts will have reviews, interviews, and tips on writing. Take a look at PAST MMGM POSTS.

It’s easy to get a spot in the lineup. Email me the title of the book or feature and a link to your blog at gpcolo[at]gmail[dot]com

Make sure you put MMGM or Marvelous Middle Grade Monday in the subject line so it gets sorted accurately–and don’t forget to say what you’re featuring) You MUST email me your link by Sunday evening (11 PM Eastern Time) in order to be included in the list of links for that week’s MMGM.

*Please note: these posts are not a reflection of my own opinions on the books featured. Each blogger is responsible for their own MMGM content and I do not pre-screen reviews ahead of time, nor do I control what books they choose. I simply assemble the list based on the links that are emailed to me.