Wolf's Belly ARC Review 🐺

Wolf's Belly by John August
and illustrated by Simón Estrada

 

My Star Rating: 5 Stars 

Page Count: 320 pages

Genre: Middle Grade Fantasy Graphic Novel 

Date Read: June 28th, 2026

Publication Date: July 7th, 2026

Publisher: Roaring Brook Press

Review: 

A clever graphic novel retelling of "Little Red Riding Hood." The story is about Lu, who does not enjoy being known only as Little Red Riding Hood. She is one of six children of adventurers and yearns to be known for something more like her parents and older siblings. Lu sets out at the beginning of the story to slay the wolf but is swallowed up by him unexpectedly when going to visit her grandmother. The majority of the tale takes place a world in the belly of the beast. 

I particularly enjoyed the expansion on the story and the addition of the other characters from fairy tales and other literary works. I think the lesson Lu and the other characters learn while in the wolf's belly is a powerful one that both children and older readers can get something out of. Despite being inspired by classic tales, Wolf's Belly stands out with the lessons and powerful messages. 

The art style is immaculate and reminds me a bit of The Lightfall graphic novel series by Tim Probert. I love the way colors are used throughout this and how the formatting is played with. Especially in the scene when Lu falls into the wolf's belly. I enjoy graphic novels that don't just stick to the standard panels and have their artwork filling the pages in innovative ways. Every bit of the art in the story is stunning. 
 
I cannot recommend it enough for both the story and the artwork. I would love to add this to my collection and will be keeping an eye out for other works from John August and Simón Estrada. It has a wonderful story with beautiful art. I highly recommend picking up Wolf's Belly. 

*Thank you very much to NetGalley, Roaring Brook Press, and John August for my audiobook ARC of this book. All opinions are my own.*