Amber was only 9 yrs old when she lost her parents. In a freak accident, a meteor crashed into their home one night, engulfing it in flames. She was left terribly scarred and her brother Reggie has lain in a coma for the past 6 years.

Now 15 and at high school, Amber lives with her neighbour who has cared for her even since that devastating night. Amber would much rather be alone in the nearby woods, than at school. Her particular interest in insects brings scorn from others, especially a bully called Staci who also teases her about her scars.

There is one person however, that seems to understand Amber, even sharing her interest in entomology. Justin is a classmate, kind and sticking up for Amber when he can. Maybe she can finally stop feeling so alone?

Little does she know that a school trip into the woods is about to change her life yet again. An accident plunges them both in the midst of a large swarm of angry hornets. Somehow they survive with hardly a sting. Did she have anything to do with their incredible escape?

Again, an incident with insects arises and this time it’s very public. Amber flees, not only Justin and school, but her home as well. Something Justin said has followed her though. The government has been showing interest in strange happenings around the country. Others have been showing strange behaviour too. His warning stays with her and she avoids any contact with others.

In the meantime, there is another with strange powers. He is older than Amber, with even more alarming powers. Although he is saving people from burning buildings the media report anger in the community towards him. Who is he? Where did he come from?

The 1st in a new illustrated series from the author of Wolf Girl, Ninja Kid, and Hot Dog, Skydragon is a tale of two teens struggling with strange new powers. They believe they are doing good but for who?

Skydragon drew me in quickly with the introduction of Amber and her love of insects. She is happy and preparing for a meal with her loving family when disaster strikes. Empathy for Amber is instant, and a jump forward 6 years to Amber as a troubled teen reinforces it.

School and bullying is something we all understand, and the introduction of a strange power to combat it made me cheer for Amber. A withdrawal from people helps her hone her new skills with wonderous results. Building steadily through action and intrigue, Skydragon‘s ending left me instantly wanting the next episode. Perfect for young teens looking for an easier read, or reluctant readers.

Author – Anh Do

Illustrator – James Hart

Age – 8+

Teachers – Find Reading Group Notes here

Read a review for the next in this series – Click on the cover

More Series from Anh Do (Click on the covers to see more reviews)

(Superpowers, Hero, Bugs, Insects, Fire, Meteor, Loneliness, Loss, Fight, Flight, Government Agent, Series)