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Surviving the Wild #1

Surviving the Wild: Star the Elephant

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Planet Earth meets Narwhal and Jelly in this funny and suspenseful young reader graphic novel adventure series featuring heroic animals! Inspired by true events, the book includes facts about climate change, elephants, and how kids can help protect the environment.

"A heartening and pensive story, told through irresistibly charming art, Star the Elephant is an utter delight." ―John Patrick Green, New York Times -bestselling creator of InvestiGators

Star the Elephant and his herd are searching for a new home. But when Star is separated from his family, he must journey alone into the great unknown. He'll come face to face with giant spiders, the vast ocean beyond his island, and strange humans. Can Star find his way back to his family?

112 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2022

6 people are currently reading
136 people want to read

About the author

Remy Lai

15 books261 followers

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5 stars
132 (38%)
4 stars
153 (44%)
3 stars
52 (15%)
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3 (<1%)
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2 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
Profile Image for Bookishrealm.
3,380 reviews6,510 followers
March 15, 2023
I've been meaning to dive into more early children's graphic novels. This is one that's been on my radar for a while and I'm glad that I finally got to it. Definitely one to pick up if you or a younger reader enjoy reading about animals and/or environmental issues.

Star the Elephant follows the journey of an elephant named star who is having to leave home due to deforestation. Readers follow Star and some of her family members as they attempt to head to an island for sanctuary. During this journey, Star ends up losing her family and has to survive on her on for a short while.

This was a great graphic novel! Like I stated before, I've been seeing this series around and I've been meaning to pick it up. The conversations about deforestation and it's impact on animals is great for both younger and adult readers. Humans don't always understand the impact that they have on not only the environment, but also animals. I enjoyed the fact the the author thought to include notes at the end of the story which detailed deforestation, how to protect the environment as well as the inspiration for the creation of the story. There were even some fun facts about the differences between elephants from Asia and elephants from Africa. The artwork was charming and vibrant. I'm not sure what style of inking the author utilized in this but I really enjoyed it. Overall, this was a wonderful and informative graphic novel that a lot of readers will enjoy.
Profile Image for Jeann (Happy Indulgence) .
1,061 reviews6,572 followers
July 3, 2022
An adorable graphic novel about deforestation and the impacts it has on wildlife - particularly elephants.
Profile Image for LindaPf.
824 reviews70 followers
January 31, 2022
Surviving the Wild series: Rainbow the Koala, Star the Elephant

Remy Lai, author and artist, has two new early reader graphic novels in a series featuring animals in heroic situations and perilous adventures. Graphic novels are an alternative for early readers compared to the standard easy reader books, and increasingly there are more graphic novels for ages 4 to 8, although middle grades are probably the prime targets of this series. Kids who have a difficult time engaging with regular books or are learning to read can be drawn to graphic novels and these might inspire otherwise reluctant participants to eventually become voracious readers.

Both books are lengthy (over 100 pages) and beautifully illustrated. The narratives, however, touch on serious subjects such as environmental changes, separation anxiety from parents/herds, food insecurity, survival skills, injuries and questionable interaction with humans. Each book has an explanation at the end on what inspired the story, which develops a deeper appreciation of storytelling.

For Star the Elephant, the story is based on three elephants that lost their home due to deforestation and then swam across a strait to a populated island, necessitating a capture and transfer to an animal sanctuary.

For Rainbow the Koala, the inspiration was about the bush wildfires in Australia wherein millions of animals perished. Koalas were found by specially trained dogs, treated in animal hospitals and released back into forested areas.

There are a lot of sensitive scenes, as I mentioned above, that might be upsetting to a younger range of readers, so I’d recommend these for readers 8 and older. Star gets tranquilized and nearly drowns while swimming. Rainbow must flee the raging forest fires. Both are seen struggling to find food and are saddened when they are separated from their mothers (no worries, happy reunions occur). But both tales are ultimately charming. The author is expanding the series with a future book, Sunny the Shark, to be published in August 2022.

The illustrations are wonderful and add to the storytelling immensely. Included are numerous facts about the featured animals and their homelands. Remy Lai is multitalented storyteller and should have great success with this environmentally minded series. 5 stars.

Thanks to Henry Holt and NetGalley for the ARCs of this series.
Profile Image for Josephine Sorrell.
1,966 reviews38 followers
March 17, 2022
This beautifully illustrated book is part of an environmental series. This one features Star the Elephant. Star, her mother and aunt, who are Asian elephants, who lost their home due to deforestation. Elephants are great swimmers so they swam across a strait to a populated island. Here they were captured and transferred to an animal sanctuary. This is inspired by a true event.
The story begins quite happily until they run out of the food. Star.’s mother is constantly trying to protect her little one yet Star gets tranquilized and nearly drowns while swimming, and becomes separated from her mother. But don’t worry, a happy reunion occurs and they go off to live happily ever after.

At the conclusion, readers are advised of tips for protecting our environment and keeping animal sanctuaries intact


The illustrations are bright, happy and should appeal well to children. The author told a sweet story of animals with an important message,

I gave four stars and nit five because I thought the story was a little lengthy for a picture book.

Thanks to Henry Holt and NetGalley for the ARC.
Profile Image for Annie.
730 reviews20 followers
April 25, 2022
A beautifully illustrated graphic novel for early readers that can be equally enjoyed by adults. Adorable storyline and impressive art that tells such an important and timely story touching on very deep themes such as environmental changes and emotional impacts. Once again Remy does a fantastic job in weaving a cute story with strong underlying messages through her art. With special thanks to Allen & Unwin for sending me review copies of this amazing graphic novel.
Profile Image for Carlotta.
10 reviews1 follower
April 27, 2024
Star the Elephant is the first of a series of three graphic novels. It is a really good book because it is a story but also tells you something that is true about elephants. There was not enough food on the island because humans were cutting down trees and it is about their journey to find more food. Star gets lost and has to watch out for humans. It turns out that the humans want to protect the elephants by putting them in a safe place. At the end of the book it tells you real ways to protect elephants like only use electricity when you need to and don't cut down trees. (Review by Lottie, Age 8)
Profile Image for CW ✨.
739 reviews1,748 followers
Read
April 25, 2024
Star the Elephant is a bittersweet mix of adorable, heartbreaking, and a call to action. This is for the young eco-warriors out there who care about our forests and the animals we share the world with.
Profile Image for Peacegal.
11.8k reviews102 followers
June 22, 2022
This charming juvenile graphic novel, inspired by true events, follows a young elephant who gets separated from his family herd while fleeing deforestation and is reunited with them in a wildlife refuge where they will finally be safe. The text weaves environmental concepts into the story in a way that doesn't feel forced or heavy-handed, and we see that while humans can be the cause of harm to wildlife and wild places, we can also choose to preserve them.
477 reviews16 followers
April 20, 2022
Inspired by true events, Remy Lai’s heartfelt new graphic novel series, Surviving the Wild, is going to be a huge hit with animal lovers, especially young eco-warriors, conservationists and environmental activists.

Rainbow’s mum has taught him all he needs to know to survive in the wild and the time has now come for Rainbow to go and find his own place to call home. But Rainbow is scared! There are dangers on the ground, finding the right tree is tricky, kookaburra keeps making fun of him and a pesky bird takes his fur for a nest. There are bigger threats too. The sun has scorched the ground, the water has dried up and Rainbow must face his greatest test. Surviving a bushfire…

Star loves spending time with the herd but when their food supply runs out it is time for the family to split up and go their own ways. The search for food is hard going and swimming across wild waters is tiring. Separated from his mum and aunt, life only gets harder for little Star. Lost and alone in a big and dangerous world and with humans everywhere he looks, he knows he must keep running. But how long can one elephant run for until he runs into trouble…

Raw, honest and emotionally-charged, these tales of animals in danger are drama-filled and exciting. Both stories feature a delightful cast of animal characters and Rainbow and Star are two shining beacons, who readers will take to their hearts, as hope, courage and bravery triumphs over adversity. With parental separation, scarcity of food and water, and survival all explored, these are not for very sensitive little souls. Although happy endings and family reunions ultimately prevail, there is plenty of peril, danger and near-misses along the way.

Beautifully illustrated and very enjoyable to read, both stories do a superb job of highlighting some of the challenges that the world’s wildlife faces. The particular focus here is on climate change and wildfires, and deforestation and the threat posed by people. The sad truth is that not all animals have the happy endings experienced by Star and Rainbow. As humans we have a lot to answer for, placing animals in danger through no fault of their own is unfair and unjust.

While these are targeted for young readers, Lai does not shy away from the harsh realities that animals face. Dramatic scenes of bushfires destroying Rainbow’s habitat and the aftermath, of elephants submitting to tranquilliser darts (this did have a happy outcome) and of Star’s desperate swim across the ocean are especially sobering and will surely leave readers wanting to help.

The back matter content is as good as the stories and it is where readers will find the tips and tools that they need to empower them so that they can make a difference. Further information on elephants and koalas, the true events that inspired the stories, and simple and accessible ideas on what can be done to help are all included across several fabulous pages.

More must be done to protect our wild animals and to ensure they can live long and happy lives in their natural habitats. Stories like this are essential to have on the bookshelves to educate and encourage younger generations. In the words of Remy Lai’s animals, ‘Together, we can protect the Earth!’

With huge thanks to Allen & Unwin for the copies I received in exchange for an honest review.

Recommended for 6+.
Profile Image for Bethea Scovic.
397 reviews5 followers
March 22, 2022
The cover illustration and title drew me to this book. Most young children enjoy stories about animals and I had to read this to see if it was one I thought my students would like.

This was a simple story, about a young elephant named Star and his family. Due to deforestation, Star has to flee his home with his aunt and mother. The book follows Star through his journey to find a new home. At the end of the book are facts about deforestation and ways that humans can help to prevent it. The steps are simple so that children understand how they can help the earth. Children are also sure to be drawn into the story by the colorful and appealing illustrations.

While I do not see this as a read-aloud book to use with a whole class, it is a perfect book to read one-on-one with a child or for a child who is a stronger reader to use as an independent reading book. This book would appeal to children in Kindergarten through second or third grade.

Thank you to #NetGalley for an ARC of #SurvivingtheWild:StartheElephant by #RemyLai in exchange for an honest review. All views shared are completely my own.
Profile Image for Erin.
768 reviews26 followers
April 1, 2022
Early Graphic Novel Series with a focus on animals and environmental issues.

I always love Lai's illustrations and they work very well in this format for younger readers. Use caution, however, as the material can be upsetting for younger kids or those sensitive to animals in danger, but the overall message is one of hope.

Star the elephant is inspired by a true story of elephants who swam from Malaysia to Singapore after losing their home due to deforestation.

The back matter in the book explains the real story of the 3 elephants and discusses how Star's story in the book is a bit different. It also includes suggestions for small ways to make a difference when thinking about deforestation.

Overall, this is a great new graphic novel series! I think kids will love it. Thank you to the author and publisher for sharing a copy with me.
Profile Image for Gabby.
1,114 reviews148 followers
April 7, 2022
A very important and sweet story about Star, an elephant trying to find a home after the humans have destroyed the forests she lives in.
This graphic novel teaches us a lot about the environment, animals and deforestation, with the target audience being younger readers. It shows the effect that humans have on wildlife, and teaches us how to take better care of the affected animals and raise awareness.
Definitely one I hope to see in a lot of classrooms. A wonderful story with Remy Lai’s signature art style, perfect for all ages. I can’t wait to read more of the “Surviving the Wild” series.

Thank you to Allen & Unwin for providing me a copy of this graphic novel to review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
73 reviews
May 4, 2022
This review is written by my kiddo:

Star and his family have to venture out where they’ve never gone before, so they can find a new home. However, humans separate Star from his herd. Star must not only find his way back to his herd, but also stay away from humans. That’s what his Mom always said. The question is: can he actually do that?

I loved this book and the art inside it. The colors in the book made me feel like I was in the story. Like I was sitting right next to Star, and following him everywhere he went. My favorite character is Star, because he is cute and tiny. My favorite part was when Star was waiting in the same spot for a very long time, hoping that his family would come to him. I recommend this book to anyone who likes elephant or animal stories.
222 reviews
August 7, 2021
"Surviving the Wild: Star the Elephant" is an adorable graphic novel for young readers that depicts the plight of a young elephant and their family as the herd faces the threat of deforestation. Star's herd is forced to split up in search of a new home, and while they try their best to avoid contact with humans, they eventually are caught and happily moved to an elephant sanctuary. Backmatter includes information on the true story that inspired this graphic novel, along with helpful tips for children on how to get involved in reducing deforestation and saving wildlife. The illustrations are cute and will be appealing to the target age range.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Pam.
10.1k reviews58 followers
March 8, 2022
Graphic Novel
I received an electronic ARC from Macmillan Children's Publishing Group through NetGalley.
Based on experiences with real elephants. Lai brings readers on the journey with Star and his family as they seek a safe home from humans who are encroaching on their areas. She approaches this with sensitivity and humor alongside sharing information on what is happening to these environments. The artwork is charming and colorful to appeal to young readers. I appreciate the further illustrations and text that follows the story to share further information on what is happening with elephants and other wildlife.
Profile Image for Mary.
1,694 reviews
August 26, 2021
Star and his family are forced to move further and further away from their home due to deforestation. although this easier graphic novel is fictionalized (talking animals) we learn a lot about deforestation and elephants. The back matter includes great information about elephants, the true story behind the inspiration for this book, and ways to help wildlife. The story is well-written and easy to follow. It's filled with heart and hope. The art is really nice as well. (Read a digital ARC via Netgalley.)
Profile Image for Raven Black.
3,010 reviews5 followers
November 16, 2021
A delightful book about conservation and elephants. The story is sweet with an elephant named Star, his mother, and Auntie, must leave their area due to the deforestation of the area. Traveling to find food, they keep running into humans, until the day they cannot run anymore, but maybe this time it is not a bad thing. Goofy, cartoon illustrations, but equally fun to the text, add to the adventures. Based on three bull elephants true story of 1990. The afterwards has more information and ways you can help animals like Star.
Profile Image for Katarina.
270 reviews
January 24, 2022
*I received a free copy from NetGalley in return for my honest review* This is both a sweet and educational graphic novel about the true story of Star the elephant, how she and her mom and aunt were displaced due to deforestation, and how they were saved. I also loved the final pages that had further educational information about Star's story, elephants and other animals that appear in the story, and tips about how kids can be involved in being more conscious about the Earth, protecting animals, and recycling.
Profile Image for Samantha.
199 reviews15 followers
August 8, 2022
Wow, this book was really emotional to me! Star the elephant is 5 years old, and they are forced to travel around with their mom and auntie looking for a suitable place to call home. They encounter hunger and struggle to find food, their habitat is destroyed due to deforestation. They are afraid of encountering humans due to bad experiences in the past. Star is scared, hungry, and tired. This story is heart wrenching, but it is the truth about what humans are doing to this planet that we share with all other creatures.
Profile Image for Liz.
2,322 reviews27 followers
December 28, 2022
Star is a 5 year old elephant just having fun living life. His mom and aunt are having a harder and harder time finding food, so they swim to an island, but everywhere they go, there are humans. Can they find a safe place to live? It's an inspired by a true story. Despite the cute child-like illustrations, this story teaches readers about the real impacts of deforestation. I really liked the colorful backgrounds more than the drawings of the elephants. For animal lovers, especially those who loved One and Only Ivan and Owly.
Profile Image for Katarina.
270 reviews
January 23, 2022
This is both a sweet and educational graphic novel about the true story of Star the elephant, how she and her mom and aunt were displaced due to deforestation, and how they were saved. I also loved the final pages that had further educational information about Star's story, elephants and other animals that appear in the story, and tips about how kids can be involved in being more conscious about the Earth, protecting animals, and recycling.
Profile Image for Leslie.
1,251 reviews
April 14, 2022
A great introduction to a new series: "Surviving the Wild." We follow along with Star's story (based on true events) and learn about the problems elephants face due to humans. Ending on a positive note, we see how humans ultimately help and Lai gives awesome tips to young environmentalists on how to become aware about endangered animals.
6,338 reviews84 followers
August 4, 2022
Rounded up. A young graphic novel, based on a true story. Three elephants swim to a new island when their habitat is destroyed. Humans there capture them and move them to an elephant sanctuary.

Backmatter provides further information on the true story, other animals impacted by deforestation, elephants and what people can do to help.
120 reviews
September 20, 2022
Looks like the first of a series based on true stories of animals harrowing adventures to find a new, safe home to live when humans destroy their homes and environments. This story was based on three bull elephants that swam a mile across the ocean from Malaysia to Sinagpore in search of sanctuary.
Profile Image for Stephanie Croaning.
953 reviews22 followers
October 23, 2022
Based on a true story, this graphic novel for younger readers, grades 2 and up, follows a family of elephants as they are forced to search for food because of food scarcity due to deforestation and humanization.

The end of the book contains information about the true story as well as information on how humans can help animals in peril.
Profile Image for Kate.
1,057 reviews4 followers
October 28, 2022
While I understand poetic license, it would be better not to have animals together that don't live in the same place. Good to acknowledge and explain this in the notes at the end, but better to simply not do it. That said, I think this series will generate interest and some actions by kids who read about deforestation and human encroachment.
Profile Image for Earl.
4,118 reviews42 followers
April 15, 2023
Inspired by true events, this new early reader graphic novel series has animals facing all kinds of perils in the wild. Includes a section full of ways readers can help prevent causing more harm to the planet and the animals. In this story, a baby elephant gets separated from his herd after traveling miles on end due to food scarcity.
Profile Image for Lellie .
367 reviews14 followers
March 16, 2022
Very cute children's graphic novel about an elephant. This is a fictionalized story inspired by true events of elephant herds searching for new habitats after climate change, habitat loss, etc. A great way to teach kids about elephants and how to help protect nature while still being an engaging story.

Thank you to netgalley for a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Jennybeast.
4,448 reviews19 followers
August 30, 2022
I like that this book is focused on conservation, that it has a substantial story to tell, and that it is for an early reader age group. I think it gives elementary aged kids a lot to explore, and there's a good amount of back matter to talk about the reality that the book is based on.
Profile Image for Abbigail.
1,503 reviews8 followers
January 13, 2024
Very sweet graphic novel for early readers about an elephant trying to get to safety with her mom and aunt. The end of the book includes additional information about the true story this book was based on and caring for elephants and deforestation.

Good palette cleanser for folks that need one!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews