Dugongs of the Sky by Emily Larkin

The sky dugongs are in danger, but Captain Scree Barnacle is determined to save them. Her voyage to overturn an ancient hunting law means sailing the perilous Starstruck Straits and dealing with sabotage. But who is threatening Scree’s mission, and are others in danger too?

Can the Wildkin captain and Patch, her plucky ship’s mate, untangle a magical plot, help the lost creatures find their way home, and save the animals?

Author Emily Larkin's Dugongs of the Sky is an exciting seafaring adventure for middle-grade readers about magic, mystery and friendship. Readers are thrown straight into Larkin's world, and it did take me a moment or two to orient myself. With a number of characters and creatures, it did take a little bit to settle into the book, and I would have liked a touch more world-building before flying into the action.

However, the action will pick up readers and carry them deep into the story. Larkin puts friendship and animal conservation front and centre. She crafts a whimsical story to convey these important themes in an engaging and age-appropriate way. 

She uses some really lovely language throughout the story; the very first sentence really sets the scene and atmosphere.

Her characters are bold and unique, with flaws and virtues alike. Some characters are mere bit players, but they all have purpose and are well-defined. Captain Scree's development through the story was well thought out and felt realistic.

I can see this being a great book to read aloud - either in a classroom or at home. It's got enough action and twists to keep older readers engaged, and plenty of space to make the story your own with expression.

Illustrator Tamlyn Teow lends her artistic talent to the book, creating whimsical and dreamy artwork. A map helps readers understand the layout of the Starstruck Straits, while dugongs float through the pages.

I can see Larkin isn't ready to leave Captain Scree's world behind just yet, and I'm interested to see how this quirky fantasy story develops.

Reviewer: Rebekah Lyell

Wombat Books