Reviews of Dogland Rescue

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The author Geoffrey Durham has kindly sent us the following review of the hardback edition:

I often see books described as 'suitable for all ages' and wonder if it can possibly be true, but DOGLAND RESCUE is that and more, Crammed with subtle - and sometimes not so subtle - jokes, it's the story of kidnapped dogs rescued by a group of canines who work together for the greater good. Everyone in the story is a dog, there are no humans at all, and it's a non-stop delight. Sumptuously produced, with beautiful illustrations in full colour, it's a great read for everyone, as they say, from nine to ninety.

The well known reviewer Linda Hill has written a helpful piece about Dogland Rescue. You can find it at:

https://lindasbookbag.com/2024/12/17/dogland-rescue-by-martin-lloyd/

Helen (Bute):

A really immersive and sustained story, with such witty, detailed and lovely drawings. I think this will give the youngsters I'm sending it to a different experience of books and getting lost in an extended story.

Rachel (Bristol):

As the Christmas season is upon us, I want to recommend this wonderful graphic novel by Martin Lloyd. It’s full of canine charm, boyish humour, and beautiful images of the Thames Valley drawn by the author and painted by illustrator Layn Marlow. I’ve been reading and savouring it slowly and enjoying its loving attention to detail, playful allusions (including to modernist writers!) and a message of friendship and kindness.
If you like dogs, eccentric inventions, adventures, graphic novels such as Tintin etc., then order your copy here.

Katy (London)

My partner and I read this book together over a few sittings and we absolutely loved entering the world of Dogland together - a soothing, joyful place full of friendship and adventure. Full of surprise, humour and suspense, we were gripped by the tale and fell in love with the crew of characters. Not only is the story great fun, the illustrations are simply breath taking in places - I had to pause reading to admire scenes where the light changed in the forest, or a character's facial expression contained so much emotion or character. I think there's something for everyone in this book and it is one to return to time and again.

The author Yvonne Lyon gets a great deal right about the book in this insightful review. And yes, Layn Marlow and I had many laughs together as we worked on the illustrations.

I didn't know what to expect when I ordered this graphic novel but I was bowled over by the attention to detail in each section of the story. There's lots to enjoy and be amused by. The idyllic Dogland, which reminded me a bit of a village somewhere along the Thames, possibly in Oxfordshire, is inhabited by 2 legs and 4 legs, which neatly gets over the difficulty of dogs only being able to carry things in their mouths. There's a host of idiosyncratic characters involved in the rescue and, it may just be my take on it, a villain in the shape of a tousled, overweight former PM. A lot of work has gone into this book but at the same time I imagine the author and illustrators had a lot of fun with it. It's suitable for most age groups but perhaps younger folk might prefer a less sophisticated read.

A five star review from Jodi A on NetGalley

OMG, this is by far the cutest thing I have ever read!

Dogland Rescue is an energetic, heartwarming, and beautifully illustrated comic that delivers far more charm and craftsmanship than most all-ages titles even attempt. Martin Lloyd has created a world that feels instantly inviting, filled with humour, tension, and genuine emotional beats that land without ever feeling heavy-handed.

The story follows Bruno Basset, a loyal and determined crime-fighting dog who becomes tangled in a rescue mission that quickly escalates into a larger mystery. What begins as a routine case turns into a high-stakes adventure involving missing puppers, shady villains, and a surprising conspiracy beneath the surface of Dogland. Bruno’s instincts, loyalty, and refusal to back down drive the entire narrative, making him not only lovable but legitimately heroic.

The writing is sharp and accessible, balancing humour with heartfelt moments. The dialogue is playful and quick without sacrificing clarity, and the pacing keeps younger readers hooked while providing enough substance and wit for adults to enjoy. It strikes that rare all-ages sweet spot where nothing feels simplified or watered down.

The artwork is genuinely stunning. Bright, expressive, and expertly composed, each panel adds depth to the story rather than simply illustrating it. Characters are emotive, the action sequences are fluid, and the environments are richly designed. It’s the kind of visual storytelling that makes you want to pause to take it all in.

This comic is funny, clever, warm, and—most importantly—built around dogs, which is an automatic win. I’ll be purchasing a physical copy and I fully expect it to find a loyal audience (hoping there is more to the series also!). An outstanding title that deserves enthusiastic recommendation.

The American reviewer Char Jones has this to say about Dogland Rescue.

A gorgeous graphic novel with dogs, wit, and heart. Loved it!