Spark by Sarah Beth Durst

Standalone
Publisher: Clarion
Published: 5/14/19
320 p.
Source: From author for review

When a shy girl and her dragon-like companion discover their country’s idyllic weather comes at a steep—and secret—cost, they recruit fellow students to defy authority and attempt to spread the truth. 

Storm beasts and their guardians create perfect weather every day, and Mina longs for a storm beast of her own. But when the gentle girl bonds with a lightning beast—a creature of fire and chaos—everyone’s certain it’s a mistake. Everyone but Mina and the beast himself, Pixit. Quickly enrolled in lightning school, Mina struggles to master a guardian’s skills, and she discovers that her country's weather comes at a devastating cost—a cost powerful people wish to hide. Mina’s never been the type to speak out, but someone has to tell the truth, and, with Pixit’s help, she resolves to find a way to be heard.

My thoughts:

This was a cute MG book that can be enjoyed by all ages. I think this would also be a great book to read to the smaller kids as there is nothing in it that is too mature. The protagonist, Mina, is a shy girl who finds the strength within to right a wrong she finds within her world. She also does not seek fame but is content to let others shine as be a part of the heroic acts. Her humbleness really makes her even more of a hero and also shows that even the smallest voice can find her (or his) way into making a great impact.

If you need another reason to read or share the book, it is also a fun fantasy with dragons as besties! Would that be a beastie bestie? LOL Seriously the dragons also have great personalities and aren't pets but neither are they the heros of the story. They are a great sidekick who can encourage when needed and are just big scaly lovebugs.

I give this book 4 1/2 stars and really do recommend it to everyone who loves a cute story with a girl who finds her own strength. I also love that it has consequences of convenience and teaches that even if you don't suffer the consequences, you still are responsible for them.

🐉