A new middle-grade graphic novel series based on a beloved webcomic (Dog Eat Doug) popular among the pet-obsessed, SOPHIE expands the comic strip’s universe with two debut titles: Jurassic Bark and Frankenstein’s Hound.
“The humor is absolutely all ages, mixing slapstick with goofy non sequiturs and pop-culture allusions. Anderson’s art has a funny pages feel to it, with big-headed Doug and a lively group of deftly drawn animals cavorting in a generic suburban landscape—except when they are swept away to the Jurassic era or outer space.”
—School Library Journal (Funny Animal Comics)
“These are great! Very Calvin and Hobbes in tone. Episodic chapters full of fantastical adventures starring a baby, dogs, cats, and squirrels. Readers will absolutely love these—get multiple copies!” —Teen Librarian Toolbox Blog (Hosted by School Library Journal)
“. . . If the mix of adult-sounding dialogue (“Hey! You’re not allowed on the furniture!” “What part of we’re cats do you not understand?”) and broad humor is reminiscent of “Calvin and Hobbes,” there’s plenty of snuggling and dancing to give the hijinks a cozily domestic tone all their own.” — Kirkus Reviews Read the whole review
“. . . funny, well paced, and just different than most things out there.” —Lenny Swartz (FORCES OF GEEK)
“. . .harkens back to those heady days of Calvin and Hobbes” — School Library Journal Read the whole review
“Here’s something fun. The creator of the popular webcomic Dog Eats Doug has come up with a new graphic novel series that definitely hits one as being on the younger end of the scale. It can’t come a minute too soon either. As any librarian will tell you, finding younger GNs is a challenge in and of itself. Each book in this series is based on a movie where Sophie is the hero. For doggie GN kids, this will be right up their alley..” —A Fuse #8 Production, Betsy Bird (School Library Journal)
“In a dozen loosely linked chapters with titles like “The Bark Knight” and “Cat-ificial Intelligence,” sudden imaginary costume changes mark further high and low moments in Sophie’s ongoing relationships with an expanding cast of arrivals—from eloquent, if monosyllabic, toddler Doug (“Bak!”) to several shelter dogs fostered by the household’s humans. Along with borrowing characters and running themes from the original webcomic, these fresh episodes preserve both its sly brand of humor and solid-gold values on the way to a cozy closing snoozefest. . . “
—Kirkus Reviews Read the whole review
NEW! Publishing date: 2025
ISBN: 9781958325346 (Hardback $18.99)
Length: 240 pages
Size: 8.25×5.5 inches
Ages: 8-12 Grade: Gr2-6
AUTHOR/ILLUSTRATOR: Brian Anderson
Life is good when you’re a dog and you have humans all to yourself. But what about when a new baby enters the picture . . . along with a couple of cats intent on taking over the world?
Publishing date: 2024
ISBN: 978-1-958325-29-2 (Hardback $18.99)
ISBN: 978-1-958325-14-8 (Trade paperback $14.99)
Length: 224 pages
Size: 8.25×5.5 inches
Ages: 8-12 Grade: Gr2-6
AUTHOR/ILLUSTRATOR: Brian Anderson
Based on the much-loved webcomic, “Dog Eat Doug,” Sophie is a hilarious new graphic novel series, a sendup of family life from the perspective of one snarky dog who wants nothing more than to have everything—without ever having to share. Full of mini adventures, pop culture spoofs, sharp jokes, adorable illustrations, and a sneaky dose of heart, Jurassic Bark and Frankenstein’s Hound are the perfect introduction to these characters and their world. Just right for the pet-obsessed among us no matter the age, while simultaneously appealing to the kids who love to giggle at Big Nate, Dog Man, Garfield, and Snoopy.
Available at your favorite bookstores or online retailers.
What is a dog to do when her perfect family world of affection and unlimited cookies is invaded by a human baby and a pair of cats intent on world domination?
Publishing date: 2024
ISBN: 978-1-958325-30-8 (Hardback $18.99)
ISBN: 978-1-958325-25-4 (Trade paperback $14.99)
Length: 224 pages
Size: 8.25×5.5 inches
Ages: 8-12 Grade: Gr2-6
AUTHOR/ILLUSTRATOR: Brian Anderson
Get ready for double the fun with the Sophie series, launching two awesome books in 2024! In Frankenstein’s Hound (Book 2), join a gang of foster puppies on a dragon hunt, witness Sophie and Jack’s epic battle against the Ninja Socks, and brace yourself for the mischievous duo, Chewy and Equi, who create a Cat-ificial intelligence robot thinking just just like them. Ever wondered what the Yeti of Enlightenment has to spill about the secret of happiness? And who’s that mysterious giant lurking behind Doug and Sophie on the cover? Dive into the book and unravel the excitement yourself!
Brian Anderson is the author of The Conjurers trilogy. He is also an optioned screenwriter and the creator of the syndicated comic strip “Dog Eat Doug.” He lives in North Carolina with his family, which includes a herd of rescued dogs and cats. Find him at www.brianandersonwriter.com.
Absurd in the best way, The Dogs Next Door is a silly, playful, multilayered picture book for kids – and grownups – who adore dogs and giggling.
“A relatable tale that will ring true with both creative and athletic readers.”
—Kirkus Reviews
“A can-do panda and a laze-about penguin are inexplicably best buds in this odd-couple escapade series launch.”
Publishers Weekly – Early Reader Spotlight
“A highly recommended realistic fiction title that deftly explores classic tween themes of summer, friendship, and coming of age.” —School Library Journal