The Lost Dragonflies

Longlisted for the Times/Chicken House CompetitionIn a world where ancient earth magic runs deeper than science can explain, one girl's journey may be nature's last hope.Twelve-year-old Belle lives in Whisper Valley, where dragonflies spin stones of magic and donkeys lead the way through danger. Torn between her mum's faith in science and her Nana Willow's bond with the land, Belle must decide what to believe when the lake begins to die-and only one truth can save it.But something deeper is poisoning the valley. A charismatic scientist claims to offer a cure. A healing ritual is sabotaged. And the dragonflies, once protectors, are turning violent.To uncover the truth, Belle will brave a blizzard, follow an injured kite, and descend beneath the land's surface-guided by a walking stick that grows with her and a friendship tested by fear. In the final battle between control and connection, Belle must choose: trust the roots of the past or let them die.Perfect for fans of Hannah Gold's The Last Bear, Kiran Millwood Hargrave's The Girl of Ink and Stars, and Abi Elphinstone's Sky Song, this middle grade eco-fantasy-longlisted for the Times/Chicken House Children's Fiction Competition 2025-is a heartfelt adventure about family, courage, and the living magic of the natural world.