King and the Dragonflies by Kacen Callender is widely praised for its heartfelt exploration of grief, identity, and friendship. Reviewers commend Callender's lyrical prose and authentic portrayal of a young boy's emotional journey. Some critique the pacing as slow, but most agree the character development compensates well. A poignant, thought-provoking read.

Readers who would enjoy King and the Dragonflies by Kacen Callender are typically young adults and middle-grade readers who appreciate heartfelt, coming-of-age tales addressing themes of grief, identity, and resilience. Fans of The Thing About Jellyfish by Ali Benjamin or Ghost Boys by Jewell Parker Rhodes will find this novel equally compelling.

King and the Dragonflies by Kacen Callender follows 12-year-old Kingston James, a Black youth in a small Louisiana town, as he mourns the death of his older brother Khalid, who he imagines has turned into a dragonfly. King navigates his grief, explores his emerging gay identity, and helps his friend Sandy, who faces abuse at home. The story weaves themes of self-realization, friendship, and family. Depicts incidents of homophobia and child abuse.

Contemplative / Emotional / Melancholic / Inspirational / Mysterious

Kacen Callender

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Fiction

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Study Guide

Before You Read

Explore King and the Dragonflies reviews, reading age recommendations, and essential genre and thematic details before you start reading.

Before You Read King and the Dragonflies | SuperSummary

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Overview

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King and the Dragonflies Summary and Study Guide

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Chapters 1-4

King and the Dragonflies Chapters 1-4 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 5-8

King and the Dragonflies Chapters 5-8 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 9-12

King and the Dragonflies Chapters 9-12 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 13-16

King and the Dragonflies Chapters 13-16 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 17-19

King and the Dragonflies Chapters 17-19 Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

King and the Dragonflies Character Analysis

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Themes

King and the Dragonflies Themes

Symbols & Motifs

King and the Dragonflies Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

King and the Dragonflies Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

King and the Dragonflies Essay Topics

King and the Dragonflies

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read King and the Dragonflies?

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Book Details