Ariol #2 Thunder Horse (Ariol Graphic Novels, 2) by Emmanual Guibert

If you’ve ever wished for a book that perfectly captures the whimsy, awkwardness, and pure joy of childhood, Ariol #2: Thunder Horse by Emmanuel Guibert is a must-read. This second installment in the beloved Ariol graphic novel series continues the adventures of Ariol, a young blue donkey with big dreams, relatable struggles, and an endearing cast of animal friends.

Blending humor, warmth, and a touch of childhood nostalgia, Thunder Horse is a delightful follow-up that deepens Ariol’s world while keeping the lighthearted charm that made the first book so lovable. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to the series, this book offers a fresh, engaging experience that will leave you smiling.

Without giving away major spoilers, Thunder Horse follows Ariol as he navigates school, friendships, and his wild imagination. The titular "Thunder Horse" refers to Ariol’s idol—a superhero-like figure from his favorite TV show, who embodies bravery, strength, and all the qualities Ariol wishes he had.

Throughout the book, Ariol daydreams about being as heroic as Thunder Horse while dealing with everyday kid problems: school bullies, embarrassing parents, and the struggle to fit in. The episodic storytelling keeps the pace lively, with each chapter offering a new mini-adventure—whether it’s Ariol trying to impress his crush, Petula, or getting into mischief with his best friend, Ramono.

One of the biggest strengths of Ariol is its cast of characters, who feel like real kids (albeit anthropomorphic animals) with distinct personalities:

• Ariol – Our protagonist is sweet, imaginative, and occasionally insecure. His daydreams about Thunder Horse reflect his desire to be braver and more confident, making him deeply relatable.
• Ramono – Ariol’s loyal but mischievous pig best friend provides comic relief and a dose of reality, often dragging Ariol into harmless trouble.
• Petula – Ariol’s crush, a cow who is smart, kind, and sometimes oblivious to his awkward attempts to impress her.
• Mr. Blunt – The grumpy but well-meaning teacher who hilariously embodies every kid’s perception of a strict educator.

Guibert excels at making these characters feel authentic, with quirks and flaws that mirror real childhood dynamics.

Guibert’s writing is deceptively simple—the dialogue is natural, the humor is effortless, and the pacing keeps young readers engaged. The graphic novel format enhances the storytelling, with expressive illustrations that bring Ariol’s world to life.

The narrative alternates between reality and Ariol’s daydreams, blurring the line between imagination and real-life struggles. This technique not only adds humor but also subtly explores how kids use fantasy to cope with challenges.

Beneath the humor, Thunder Horse touches on deeper themes:

• The Power of Imagination – Ariol’s fantasies aren’t just escapism; they help him process emotions and build confidence.
• Friendship & Loyalty – His bond with Ramono is tested but ultimately proves that true friends stick together.
• Self-Acceptance – Ariol learns that he doesn’t need to be a superhero to be worthy—he’s enough just as he is.

These messages are delivered with a light touch, making them accessible without feeling preachy.

Reading Thunder Horse felt like revisiting my own childhood—awkward crushes, silly daydreams, and the universal struggle of wanting to be cooler than you are. The humor had me laughing out loud (especially Ariol’s exaggerated fantasies), while quieter moments tugged at my heartstrings.

Parents and kids alike will find something to love here. It’s a book that encourages discussion—why do we idolize heroes? How do we handle embarrassment?—while never losing its fun, breezy tone.

Fans of Diary of a Wimpy Kid or Big Nate will adore Ariol for its humor and school-life antics. However, Ariol stands out with its European comic flair—gentler, more whimsical, and less sarcastic than its American counterparts. It’s closer in spirit to Calvin and Hobbes in its blend of imagination and heartfelt storytelling.

✅ Charming Art & Expressive Characters – The illustrations are vibrant and full of personality.
✅ Perfect Pacing – Short chapters make it great for reluctant readers.
✅ Universal Themes – Both kids and adults will find it relatable.

❌ Episodic Nature – Some readers might prefer a more continuous plot, though the vignette style works well for the target age group.
❌ Cultural Nuances – Originally French, some jokes might land differently for non-European readers, but the core themes are universal.

• Kids (Ages 7-12) – Perfect for middle-grade readers who enjoy funny, relatable stories.
• Parents & Educators – A great read-aloud book with themes worth discussing.
• Graphic Novel Fans – If you love Bone or Hilda, this is a must-try.

One standout moment is when Ariol imagines himself as Thunder Horse, declaring:

"With great hooves comes great responsibility!"

Another touching scene involves Ariol realizing:

"Maybe I don’t need to be Thunder Horse… maybe being Ariol is enough."

Originally published in France, the Ariol series has gained international acclaim for its universal appeal. The humor and school setting are familiar enough for global readers, while the European comic style adds a fresh perspective compared to mainstream American children’s books.

Ariol #2: Thunder Horse is a delightful, heartwarming, and laugh-out-loud funny addition to the series. Emmanuel Guibert masterfully balances humor and heart, making this a book that kids will adore and parents will appreciate. Whether you’re looking for a fun family read or a nostalgic trip back to childhood, this graphic novel delivers.

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Discussion Questions for Readers:

• Did you ever have a childhood hero you idolized like Ariol does with Thunder Horse?
• Which character do you relate to the most—Ariol, Ramono, or Petula?
• How do you think Ariol’s imagination helps him in real life?

Have you read Ariol? Share your thoughts in the comments! 🐴💙

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