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The Mark of the Dragonfly

Jaleigh Johnson · 2014

Explore the age guidance, content cautions, positive qualities, and supporting notes for The Mark of the Dragonfly by Jaleigh Johnson. This book is recommended for ages 10+; content notes include Frightening scenes, Violence, Death of a character; positive qualities include Courage & resilience, Creativity & curiosity.

Ages 10+Source checked

Why this age? The adventure includes danger, threats, pursuit, captivity, and emotionally serious injustice, but sexual content is absent and violence is generally suitable for mature middle-grade readers. This is guidance, not a safety guarantee; reading level and family context may differ.

Quick view

At a glance

Recommended age10+

Strongest cautions

  • Frightening scenes3/5
  • Violence3/5
  • Death of a character2/5

Strongest positives

  • Courage & resilience4/5
  • Creativity & curiosity4/5
  • Good role models4/5

What’s in it?

Death of a character2/5
Why this rating?

References past deaths and loss of family members; some characters are in danger, but the focus is on survival.

Graphic injury1/5
Why this rating?

Violence is described without graphic detail or focus on bodily harm.

Strong language1/5
Why this rating?

Language is mild and appropriate for the intended middle-grade audience.

Romance1/5
Why this rating?

The story focuses on friendship and survival rather than romantic subplots.

Frightening scenes3/5
Why this rating?

Features intense chase scenes and a constant sense of danger, but is not intended to be frightening or horror-based.

Alcohol or drugs1/5
Why this rating?

No use of drugs, alcohol, or tobacco by the main characters.

Violence3/5
Why this rating?

Includes fantasy combat, train crashes, and scenes of peril involving mechanical creatures and armed guards.

What’s good in it?

Courage & resilience4/5
Why this rating?

Characters frequently act with bravery in the face of uncertainty and mechanical threats.

Creativity & curiosity4/5
Why this rating?

Highly imaginative world-building, involving unique steampunk-inspired technology and dimension-hopping meteorites.

Diverse representation2/5
Why this rating?

Features a varied cast in terms of social standing and abilities within its unique fantasy world.

Educational value1/5
Why this rating?

Incidental focus on mechanics and resourcefulness; primarily a fictional narrative.

Kindness & empathy4/5
Why this rating?

Compassion is a driving force for the protagonist, often choosing to help others despite risks.

Positive messages4/5
Why this rating?

Strong themes of empathy, loyalty, sacrifice, and the importance of chosen family.

Good role models4/5
Why this rating?

Piper is a resilient, capable, and resourceful protagonist who grows through her experiences.

Family discussion

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Conversation starters based on this title’s published content notes.

  1. What did courage look like in this story? Was being brave always the same as being fearless?
  2. Which moment felt most tense or frightening? What helped the characters handle fear?
  3. Which choice in The Mark of the Dragonfly would you have made differently, and why?
  4. Who changed the most in The Mark of the Dragonfly, and what caused that change?
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These content notes are a starting point, not a guarantee. Review the evidence and use your own judgment before choosing a title.

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