Dragon Pearl by Yoon Ha Lee is widely praised for its imaginative blend of Korean mythology and space opera, appealing to middle-grade readers with its fast-paced plot and strong, relatable protagonist. While most admire its originality and diverse cast, some find certain plot points predictable. Overall, it offers an enthralling read with rich cultural lore.

Readers who enjoy magical adventures and space operas will love Yoon Ha Lee’s Dragon Pearl. Fans of Rick Riordan’s Percy Jackson series and Madeleine L’Engle’s A Wrinkle in Time will appreciate the blend of Korean mythology, interstellar intrigue, and a young protagonist’s brave journey.

Deeply influenced by Korean mythology, Yoon Ha Lee’s Dragon Pearl is a middle grade science fiction novel that follows a young fox spirit named Kim Min as she journeys across multiple worlds to find her brother, Jun, who has mysteriously vanished after deserting the Space Forces. Min uses her shape-shifting and magical Charms to navigate a universe filled with ghosts, supernatural beings, and powerful artifacts.

Fantastical / Adventurous / Mysterious / Emotional / Suspenseful

- Dragon Pearl by Yoon Ha Lee integrates elements of Korean mythology, including figures like kumiho, a nine-tailed fox spirit, which adds a unique cultural dimension to the science fiction narrative.
- The novel is part of the Rick Riordan Presents imprint, which aims to highlight diverse mythologies from around the world, making it a platform for showcasing underrepresented cultural stories.
- Yoon Ha Lee's background in mathematics is reflected in the book through the logical and strategic thinking of the protagonist and the intricacies of space travel and technology depicted in the story.

**Min**  
The protagonist and first-person narrator, Min is a fox spirit with the ability to shapeshift and use her magic called Charm. Her journey begins as she seeks to improve her life and find her missing brother.

**Captain Hwan**  
A tiger spirit and antagonist known for his dangerous nature and low, rumbling voice. He pursues his goals through deceit and trickery.

**Jun**  
Min's brother who joins the Space Forces as a cadet, hiding his fox spirit nature. His disappearance motivates Min's journey.

**Jang**  
A cadet in the Space Forces who becomes a ghost after his death during a mission. His ghostly form retains longer hair, which reflects his preferred self-image.

**Sujin and Haneul**  
Cadets in the Space Forces, often seen together. Sujin is a nonbinary goblin with invisibility powers, while Haneul is a dragon spirit able to control the weather.

**Nari**  
Min's estranged cousin who runs a gambling den and uses Charm for profit. She represents a contrasting approach to using supernatural abilities compared to Min's family.

**Byung-Ho**  
A pilot who helps Min escape her home planet. His interactions with Min are deeply influenced by her use of Charm.

Yoon Ha Lee

Middle grade

Novel

Thousand Worlds

Fiction

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