Julie Pike Books

Flame Chasers is a magical, mysterious and fantastic story that takes the reader over the seas in search of the mythical flamebirds. These birds are spotted just once a year at Bright Beacon before they make their way back home across the ocean. Their beautiful golden tails have a special power; the ability to grant the finder a wish and so treasure hunters spend their time scouring the globe to track down the flamebirds in their home.

The main character in the story, Ember, wants so much to join her dad and join the chase but her dad, fearful of the consequences of her joining the chase, decides to go without her. Of course, Ember, being a determined and feisty hero, decides to take matters into her own hands and, after meeting a mysterious creature in need of help, sets out to find her father.

The story is captivating from beginning to end. The author has created such vivid descriptions which put the reader at the heart of this far-away yet familiar setting. There are twists and turns throughout, as expected, and an utterly heartwarming ending. Ember’s curiosity and sense of adventure make her a superb character to discuss with a class as part of PSHE topics around personal responsibility or making choices. Her actions are often rash, and she is often led by her heart rather than her head. There are also themes around animal conservation which could also be explored, as well as lots of questions around right and wrong choices.

The text is suitable for upper KS2 and would be perfect as a class novel or as part of a myths and legends topic. There is also much to learn about the sea itself, which would support geography topics too. It is a wonderful story and thoroughly recommended.