Darkstalker: A Graphic Novel (Wings of Fire: Legends Graphic Novel)

DARKSTALKER is an engaging graphic novel adaptation of the WINGS OF FIRE book. Fathom, a young SeaWing prince, has learned he is an animus. With the great power comes a terrible responsibility. Clearsight, a Nightwing dragonet, can peer into the possibilities of the future. Darkstalker is a dragon who could change the world forever. Destiny will play out for these three dragons in unexpected ways.

What I loved: This is an intricate and intriguing story with strong themes of family, fate, friendship, the weight of power, wishes for the future, and possibility. These are really thought-provoking and interesting throughout the book. Some are quite relatable for the middle school audience who will be understanding the weight of their own responsibilities and navigating changing relationships with friends and family.

The characters were well-developed, and the three main characters are all really compelling. Although they are dragons, they are easy to relate to and enjoyable to get to know. The illustrations are really well done with lots of details and expressive characters that work well in the graphic novel setting. Fans of the series (or new fans) will enjoy this graphic novel and the way that it brings the imagined scenes and characters to life.

What left me wanting more: As a small thing, this is very text heavy, which can make it a bit tough to follow in places and weighs down the story in graphic novel format. As such, this would work best for older middle grade readers who can appreciate the added world- and character-building that come with the heavier text load.

Final verdict: DARKSTALKER is an engaging graphic novel that will work well for older middle grade readers who love fantasy, magic, strong themes, and dragons!