Dr. Seuss Graphic Novel: Green Eggs and Ham Take a Hike: A Green Eggs and Ham Story

Dr. Seuss Graphic Novels

by James Kochalka

Sam-I-Am's grumpy best pal Walter is missing out on the wonderful world around him, but Sam-I-Am is determined to make sure he doesn't miss a thing! After all, that's what best friends are for.

Dr. Seuss's iconic, original dynamic duo is back – and this time, Sam-I-Am is going to show his grumpy pal the world beyond green eggs and ham in their own graphic novel!
Walter doesn't know what the big deal is – sure, it might be nice to have a green eggs and ham picnic on a hike, but doesn't Sam-I-Am know about all of the bugs? And the flowers that make you sneeze? Or the rivers that block your way? No, Walter is not a fan of the outdoors, he certainly is not. And nothing Sam-I-Am will do or say will change his mind. Too bad for Walter, Sam-I-Am is always up for a challenge!
With charming illustrations and easy-to-follow panelled storytelling, this graphic novel series is an excellent bridge for kids moving into independent reading – a must-have for young readers and Dr. Seuss fans alike.

Genres: Graphic Novels, Juvenile

80 pages, Hardcover

First published January 7, 2025

About the author

James Kochalka is an American comic book artist and writer, and rock musician. His comics are noted for their blending of the real and the surreal. Largely autobiographical, Kochalka's cartoon expression of the world around him includes such real-life characters as his wife, children, cat, friends and colleagues, but always filtered through his own observations and flights of whimsy. In March 2011 he will be declared the cartoonist laureate of Vermont, serving a term of two years.

Reviews

[Kennedy Elder · Rating 5 out of 5]

❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

[Skye Elder · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was funny and adorable. I love it!!😍

[Josephine Sorrell]

Of course you know well Dr. Seuss’s iconic, 50 word reader and the dynamic duo in Green Eggs and Ham. Well they are back! This time Sam-I-Am is going to show his grumpy pal, Walter Plot, the world beyond green eggs and ham in this engaging graphic novel.

You see grumpy Walter is missing out on the wonders of this great big world because all he wants to do is beat his own video game scores. His kind friend, Sam-I-Am is determined to make sure his buddy doesn't miss a thing! Isn’t that what best friends do?

Walter doesn't get the big deal. Sure it might be nice to have a green eggs and ham picnic on a hike, but doesn't Sam-I-Am know about all of the bugs that bite, and the flowers that make you sneeze or the rivers that block your way with water that is wet?! You see Grumpy, did I say that before, Walter is not a fan of the outdoors, in no way shape or form; And he’s not going to let Sam-I-Am change his mind. Too bad for Walter, Sam-I-Am is always up for a challenge! Or maybe too good for Walter. Yes let’s go there.

James Kochalka, has created a brand-new, and hopefully a hit, with familiar illustrations and easy-to-follow paneled storytelling. Although not in the same manner of the original 50 word reader, this graphic novel is an excellent bridge for kids transitioning to chapter books.

The storyline of friendship is heartwarming and the action and expressions make the book oh so entertaining. Some of the wry humor may be lost on the young, but it gave me a good laugh.

I hope to see James Kochalka honor Dr. Seuss and remake more of his iconic books into graphic novels,

I really liked Sam-I-Am in this remake.

[Elizabeth Dickerson · Rating 3 out of 5]

A cute follow up to the beloved classic story. Sam drags his friend on a hike with the promise of Green Eggs and Ham at the end. They go through lots of challenges to get to the end!

[Robin Pelletier · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a super fun book,
Even though Mr. Plot was reluctant,
He still made it to the top, to look
And did only rant
just a little at first.
Then he liked to hike
He didn't faint of hunger or thirst:
the end green eggs and ham, he did like.

I really enjoyed the illustrations and the banter between Sam-I-Am and Mr. Plot. Kids can relate to the emotions of Mr. Plot as he is pulled out of his house for a hike when all he wants to do is play games.

[Sandbox World · Rating 5 out of 5]

So, how could anyone possibly expand on such a minimalist masterpiece? Enter Green Eggs and Ham: The Graphic Novel, an ambitious 80-page reimagining by the wildly inventive, multi-award-winning author and artist James Kochalka. If you’re wondering whether Dr. Seuss himself would have ever approved a project like this—well, one look at the art, and you’d have to think he just might have!

Instead of a straightforward retelling, Kochalka infuses the story with renewed vitality, expressive artistry, and a dynamic rhythm that captivates readers. His distinctive style—bold, whimsical, and bursting with charm—reinvigorates the timeless tale, offering a fresh and exciting perspective that reignites the magic of Dr. Seuss’s original work. This adaptation is not just a retelling but a celebration of creativity, inviting readers to rediscover the story with a sense of wonder and delight.

What makes this adaptation so thrilling is that it’s not just a remix of old Dr. Seuss illustrations—it’s a bold, original take. And if anyone is up for the challenge, it’s Kochalka. Known for his beloved Monkey vs. Robot series and his magnum opus, the decade-spanning daily diary comic American Elf, Kochalka has built a career out of blending humor, heart, and a uniquely expressive cartooning style. Beyond comics, he’s also made waves in the music world as James Kochalka Superstar, recording several albums packed with his signature quirky charm.

This isn’t just an adaptation—it’s a celebration of creativity, and it’s exciting to see such a fresh, artistic interpretation of a classic instead of a simple rehash. If you thought Green Eggs and Ham couldn’t get any weirder, wilder, or more wonderful—well, think again!

[Mrs Mommy Booknerd http://mrsmommybooknerd.blogspot.com · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sam-I-Am and his ever-grumpy best pal, Walter, are back in this fresh and engaging chapter graphic novel! This time, instead of convincing Walter to try green eggs and ham, Sam is determined to show him the wonders of the great outdoors—whether Walter likes it or not.

Told through colorful, brand-new illustrations and easy-to-follow comic-style panels, this book is a fantastic way to introduce young readers to graphic novels. The story captures the spirit of Dr. Seuss’s playful rhymes and humor while offering a fun adventure about friendship, exploration, and stepping outside one’s comfort zone. Walter’s reluctance and Sam’s boundless enthusiasm create plenty of laugh-out-loud moments, making it an entertaining read for kids and parents alike.

Perfect for early readers transitioning to longer books, Dr. Seuss’s Green Eggs and Ham Graphic Novel is a must-have for young fans of the classic story, offering a fresh twist on beloved characters in a format that encourages independent reading.

[YSBR · Rating 4 out of 5]

For all those with nostalgia for the original Green Eggs and Ham book, you now have a continuation of the original but with a fun and updated plot. Sam-I-Am is on his way to visit Mr. Plot and ask him to go on a hike. However, when he reaches his friend’s house, Mr. Plot is playing video games and is uninterested in going outside. Undeterred, Sam-I-Am pushes Mr.Plot straight out the door. Together they manage to climb all the way up to the top of the trail, where they get to enjoy a yummy lunch of green eggs and ham. The illustrations are your traditional Dr. Seuss graphics, full of bright and fun characters. The book’s talk bubble dialogue serves as the main form of text on the pages. This is a very engaging way to include readers in the story; it makes the text feel more like a fun conversation between two friends! On one of the last few pages readers can even learn how to draw the green eggs and ham. Link to complete review: https://ysbookreviews.wordpress.com/2...

[Ivonne Rovira · Rating 1 out of 5]

Technically, it’s Sam-I-Am and his reluctant pal, the crotchety Walter Plot, go hiking, but that’s the least of the issues with the Dr. Seuss-branded money grab of a book. I do not blame author James Kolchalka; I’m pretty sure Random House suits saw the opportunity to create an entire series with Sam-I-Am and poor Walter and approached him. Regardless, I believe that, with luck, that idea will die on the vine.

To begin with, who is the audience for this graphic novel? The usual Dr. Seuss crowd is too young to tackle a nearly 100-page chapter book. Those old enough to read this will be repulsed by something they’ll see as babyish. The only market I see for this incredibly predictable book is for childless aunts and uncles grabbing last-minute gifts for their nieces and nephews. And probably not many of them.

In the interest of full disclosure, I received this book from NetGalley, Random House Children and Random House Graphic in exchange for an honest review.

[Teresa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley, Random House Children's, Random House Graphic, and James Kochalka (and Dr. Seuss) for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.

I thought this "Green Eggs and Ham" quest story would be cute and fun, and it was. It follows the two main characters from Seuss' original story as they take their green eggs and ham on a nice hike to enjoy in nature. Of course Walter grumbles about everything.

This graphic novel doesn't really follow the scholarship of the original type of rhyme scheme. Seuss if brilliant, as he uses sight words and the rhyme helps children remember those words too. This is more story based, though it does attempt rhymes at times...

Still really great for perhaps a first grade audience.

[Kelly {SpaceOnTheBookcase] · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sam-I-Am shows up to his friend's house wanting to go on a hike. Mr. Plot has to be pulled away from his video game and despite having mixed feelings, finds that he is braver than he thought he was. A great chapter book for younger grades, this graphic novel is certain to delight. The illustrations were well done and the story easy to follow.

On a side note, books like these often bridge the gap for our dyslexic students who are ready for chapter books but can't quite handle pages full of text. I really hope Random House Kids continues to expand their chapter graphic novel books.

Thank you Random House Kids for the gifted copy.

[Ande Davidson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Green Eggs and Ham Take a Hike was a fun graphic novel for the kiddos. I thought the illustrations were adorable and upheld the spirit of the original book. The plot was predictable, but fun and engaging. My only complaint was the dialogue. They switched in and out of rhyming, and it just did not have the Seussian charm that I was expecting. That being said, it was still a very cute book and would be great for the kiddo that just graduated from the original story.

Thanks to NetGalley, James Kochalka, and Random House Children's for the chance to read and review! My opinions are my own.

[Read Ribbet · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sam I am and his grumpy friend Walter Plot are featured in this graphic novel that plays homage to the classic Dr. Seuss tale. This time Sam tries to convince his friend Walter to leave his video game and go on a hike with him. The effort leads to all sorts of problems as they try to find the perfect spot to eat their green eggs and ham. The story is presented in nine short chapter in graphic novel panels. The narrative text is supported and extended by the illustrations making the book quite accessible for young readers. The book contains a drawing lesson at the end.

[Stephanie Rivera · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a fun graphic novel with adorable illustrations and a fun continuation of green eggs and ham. This is great for young readers who are just getting interested in graphic novels and the story was super cute with Sam pushing his neighbor Walter to get out of his comfort zone and explore with him.
Thanks to Random House Graphic and Netgalley for the complimentary copy of this book. All opinions in this review are my own.

[Jennavier · Rating 1 out of 5]

I tried really hard to not be offended by the existence of the series. I especially didn’t want to hate on it, considering how much my kids love the authors, original works. But it’s really just an awful book. The story is boring and the art is lazy. There is a little to no reason why the characters have to be the original Sam I am and his friend. They literally named the narrator of green eggs and ham Mr. plot! I know they were trying to be cute, but it just felt lazy.

[Markita_Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

𝐞𝐀𝐫𝐜 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰
4.5 🌟
-
Graphic novel mixed with full color illustration 👌🏾! This is brilliant, I feel like this full color illustration with graphic novels | Manga vibes is great for children. This will definitely keep their attention and also draw them in.
Elementary Level Children with love this.
𝐑𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 Jan.7
Thank you, Netgalley, and Random House Children's for the eBook for my honest review.

[Jill · Rating 3 out of 5]

I received a complementary ARC of this book from NetGalley on behalf of the author and the publisher.
This is a graphic novel based on Dr Seuss Green Eggs and Ham, cute enough but I don't love the illustrations, they felt a little chaotic. It has chapter's as these characters take a hike and have an adventure.

[Therearenobadbooks · Rating 4 out of 5]

A sweet lesson: never giving up and having a friend to support our goals. Also, it's a great adventure just to have breakfast ahah. It is very easy to read and helps young readers focus and understand the story. It's a good size (73 pages). Large format drawings and panels. Includes a step-by-step of how to draw the green ham and eggs.

[Sophy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is an interesting spin on a classic kids story, this is based after the original Green Eggs and Ham. Don't go into this story thinking it will be similar to the original. It's more like the cartoon series.

[Tim · Rating 2 out of 5]

Kinda sure Theodor Geisel is a dervish in his grave over this, but the family has to make money somehow. MUCH more Kochalka-kraziness than anything Seuss (right outta the Johnny Boo/Dragonpuncher). Ok for what it is. Bright and silly. Just don't go into it looking for anything Seuss.

[David Wright · Rating 3 out of 5]

I keep reading this series in my breaks even tho I keep being disappointed.

Pros:
There was actually one instance of self-aware rhyming.

Cons:
Lacks the humour, whimsy and rhyming dialogue of the original.

[Villain E · Rating 2 out of 5]

Sam-I-Am convinces Walter Plot (was that always his name?) to take take their green eggs and ham on a picnic. Full color, sequential art. Doesn't rhyme, mostly. I find James Kolchaka's stories to be painfully stupid. This one starts dumb but ends tolerable. My kids were entertained.

[CYBILS Awards]

Spotted in this Janssen Bradshaw article @ Read Brightly: https://www.readbrightly.com/middle-g...

[Susan Reyna · Rating 1 out of 5]

Dumb. Where did the name Mr. Plot originate? Really? A “littler cave”?
This lover of the original is not impressed with this version at all!

[Arman Waggoner · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love the World of Dr. Seuss and the characters in Graphic Novel form. Nice to see them out and About.

[Paul Delacruz · Rating 3 out of 5]

Fun book about my favorite meal, Green Eggs and Ham. Little ones will enjoy as a bedtime story. Illustrations were not on par as the original Dr. Seuss books.

[Mary T · Rating 2 out of 5]

I read a lot of early graphic novels, and this one was just painful to get through. My young kids weren't interested in listening to it, so I just read it to myself.

[Maci Dierking · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cute!

[Samie Ducky · Rating 3 out of 5]

The illustrations are quirky. It’s a cute short comic but no substitution for the book itself. I wish it rhymed and flowed more in a rhythmic format.

[Hayden · Rating 2 out of 5]

Cute Dr.Seuss book but slow.