The Mark of the Dragonfly
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Book Brief
400
Novel • Fiction
•
Science Fiction•
Action & AdventureSolaras • Fantasy World
•
Power & Greed•
Perseverance2014
Delacorte Books for Young Readers
Middle grade
10-14 years
820L
Super Short Summary
In Jaleigh Johnson's The Mark of the Dragonfly, 13-year-old scavenger and mechanic Piper Linny rescues an amnesiac 11-year-old named Anna, whose dragonfly tattoo signifies royal protection. Fleeing a villain named Doloman, Piper takes Anna on a perilous journey aboard a train bound for the Dragonfly capital, uncovering Anna's mechanical nature and their own hidden strengths while forging strong bonds with the train's crew. Attempted abduction appears in the book.
Adventurous
Fantastical
Mysterious
Heartwarming
Reviews & Readership
7,712 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
The Mark of the Dragonfly by Jaleigh Johnson is widely praised for its rich world-building and engaging characters, particularly Piper, the resourceful protagonist. Reviewers appreciate the imaginative setting and strong narrative pace. However, some feel the plot can be predictable and the secondary characters lack depth. Overall, it excels as a middle-grade fantasy adventure.
Who Should Read The Mark of the Dragonfly?
Readers who enjoy imaginative adventures and strong character development, akin to those in Philip Pullman's His Dark Materials series or Trenton Lee Stewart's The Mysterious Benedict Society, will find The Mark of the Dragonfly by Jaleigh Johnson captivating. The mix of fantasy, action, and a resilient heroine appeals to fans of middle-grade fantasy novels.
7,712 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
An 11-year-old girl with a mysterious past, discovered by Piper; she appears fragile but is knowledgeable and loyal.
A scruffy 13-year-old boy who is actually a shape-shifting creature and the chief of security aboard the train known as the 401.
The second most powerful person in the Dragonfly territories and a master machinist with secret ambitions and interests in mechanical humans.
The 401 train’s healer and fireman who has a unique ability to withstand fire and helps Piper understand her abilities.
The experienced engineer of the 401, known for her mechanical arm, who looks after her crew and the train’s journey.
An elderly seer of the sarnun species with acute sensory abilities, who helps Piper and Anna discover hidden truths.
A reckless nine-year-old boy from Piper’s scrap town, who scavenges alongside his older friends and is considered a brother by Piper.
Micah’s older brother, who is serious and responsible, and assists in saving Micah when needed.
The ambitious and elegantly dressed ruler of the Dragonfly territories, with interests in expanding beyond his kingdom’s borders.
400
Novel • Fiction
•
Science Fiction•
Action & AdventureSolaras • Fantasy World
•
Power & Greed•
Perseverance2014
Delacorte Books for Young Readers
Middle grade
10-14 years
820L
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