Wildfire

Awards

Booklist best book of the year, 2023

Praise and Editorials:

Wildfire by Breena Bard has garnered critical acclaim for its poignant exploration of climate change, resilience, and community support, capturing the emotional journey of a young girl in the face of environmental devastation.

Booklist honored Wildfire as one of the Best Books of the Year, giving it a starred review and commending its “timely messaging” and the “superb, expressive artwork” that beautifully conveys protagonist Julianna’s journey through grief and anxiety. The review highlights the novel’s compassionate portrayal of climate anxiety, resonating particularly with young readers affected by wildfires or environmental concerns.

Publishers Weekly also awarded Wildfire a starred review, calling it “a gripping graphic novel” that balances conservation themes with the healing power of a supportive community. The review underscores the novel’s ability to connect with readers through both its narrative depth and relevant themes.

Kirkus Reviews praised the book as “a compassionate, action-focused story about climate justice, relationships, trauma, and healing,” emphasizing its empowering message and its focus on community and recovery.

School Library Journal noted the novel’s ability to make climate issues relatable for young readers, stating that by “giving the wildfires and their victims a face,” Bard helps children understand urgent environmental challenges. The story also provides a personal view of environmental activism, demonstrating how young people can take meaningful action in the face of global issues.

Ira Marcks, author of Shark Summer and Spirit Week, described Wildfire as “a vibrant and attention-grabbing story” that kids won’t be able to put down, calling it “a perfect firework of a book.”

Aron Nels Steinke, Eisner Award-winning author of Mr. Wolf’s Class, described the novel as “a story of hope that will inspire collective action,” touching on themes of loss, resilience, and the urgent realities of a warming planet.

Jonathan Hill, author of Tales of a Seventh-Grade Lizard Boy, likened Wildfire to “a forest after a burn,” reflecting on how the story reminds readers that loss can be followed by regrowth and resilience, encouraging readers to choose how they move forward.

Jonathan Case, author of Little Monarchs, praised Wildfire as a “grounded, graceful story” that addresses the losses we face from environmental change with warmth and attention to place, noting Bard’s talent for natural dialogue.

Together, these reviews highlight Wildfire as a standout graphic novel that combines meaningful storytelling, beautiful artwork, and a hopeful message. With themes of climate justice, personal growth, and the power of community, Wildfire is an inspiring read for anyone interested in environmental issues, middle-grade fiction, and stories that offer a path from tragedy to hope.

About the Author

Breena Bard writes and illustrates comics for kids and kids at heart, drawing inspiration from the stacks of graphic novels on her bedside table. She lives in Portland, Oregon, with her husband and two kids. When she's not working on books, Breena enjoys eating pizza, watching movies, playing the drums, and exploring the outdoors with her family.