Spark

Spark belongs to the middle grade fantasy tradition that foregrounds the transformative bond between a human protagonist and an animal companion. In these narratives, the animal is never a mere pet but a partner and guide. Their relationship of mutual respect and trust is central to the plot, and together, they tackle challenges and experience growth.

Spark draws on a legacy of fantastical creature-bond narratives like Philip Pullman’s His Dark Materials trilogy, in which the protagonist’s animal companion, or dæmon, serves as a constant source of guidance. Similarly, in Christopher Paolini’s Eragon novels, the telepathic bond between the protagonist and his dragon shapes his identity and drives his growth from a farm boy into a leader. In Cressida Cowell’s How to Train Your Dragon series, the protagonist’s friendship with a dragon fosters courage and empathy, showing that true strength comes through understanding rather than dominance.

Durst places her tale of Mina and the storm beast, Pixit, within this tradition. Even before they meet, Mina is aware of the intimate link they possess, anticipating that they will “be bonded mind-to-mind and heart-to heart” (3).