Graphic Novel

The Last Free Dog

Life of Stray Dogs, Reimagined

THE STORY VIDEO BEHIND THE STORY STAY IN TOUCH HOW TO BUY

THE STORY

In the heart of Kosovo, a litter of puppies is born, and among them, one is a spitting image of the legendary Illyrian Sheepdogs: Lyri. The pride and joy of an Illyrian is protecting a flock of sheep from wolves, bears, and even lynxes. However, young Lyri does not climb majestic mountains but instead mounds of waste. Lyri faces numerous trials in a rapidly changing world as he matures from a puppy into a young dog. His heritage and pack’s traditions give him the tenacity and vigor needed to cope with the challenges of being a free dog.

THE STORY

In the heart of Kosovo, a litter of puppies is born, and among them, one is a spitting image of the legendary Illyrian Sheepdogs: Lyri. The pride and joy of an Illyrian is protecting a flock of sheep from wolves, bears, and even lynxes. However, young Lyri does not climb majestic mountains but instead mounds of waste. Lyri faces numerous trials in a rapidly changing world as he matures from a puppy into a young dog. His heritage and pack’s traditions give him the tenacity and vigor needed to cope with the challenges of being a free dog.

THE BOOK

THE LAST FREE DOG is an all-ages graphic novel that reimagines the lives of stray dogs in the Balkans and similar places worldwide. Readers delve into the experiences of these free dogs and discover efforts to combat pollution, preserve the environment, and aid the stray animal population. Through this tale, children, leaders, and individuals of all backgrounds can engage with vital issues such as pollution and the animal rights challenges in this region.

THE BOOK

THE LAST FREE DOG is an all-ages graphic novel that reimagines the lives of stray dogs in the Balkans and similar places worldwide. Readers delve into the experiences of these free dogs and discover efforts to combat pollution, preserve the environment, and aid the stray animal population. Through this tale, children, leaders, and individuals of all backgrounds can engage with vital issues such as pollution and the animal rights challenges in this region.

BEHIND THE STORY

Portrait of Sarah Kosumi, author of the Last Free Dog graphic novel, in black and white photograph

The Author

Sarah Bergquist Kosumi is a debut author and American cartographer from California who is drawn to the creative visual arts as a means to promote change. Sarah was inspired to share the reality of Kosovo’s stray dog population, witnessed during her visits in 2020 and 2021.

The Author

Sarah Bergquist Kosumi is a debut author and American cartographer from California who is drawn to the creative visual arts as a means to promote change. Sarah was inspired to share the reality of Kosovo’s stray dog population, witnessed during her visits in 2020 and 2021.

The Illustrator

Shpend Kada is a Kosovar artist from Peja who studied graphic design and works as a freelance graphic designer, comic illustrator, and cartoonist. Shpend teaches graphic design and illustration at the middle high Art School in his hometown of Peja.

The Illustrator

Shpend Kada is a Kosovar artist from Peja who studied graphic design and works as a freelance graphic designer, comic illustrator, and cartoonist. Shpend teaches graphic design and illustration at the middle high Art School in his hometown of Peja.