52 pages • 1 hour read
Dragon Pearl
A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Book Brief
320
Novel • Fiction
Space • Far Future
2019
Middle grade
10-14 years
Super Short Summary
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
Reviews & Readership
11,575 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
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.
Who Should Read Dragon Pearl?
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.
11,575 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Captain Hwan
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
Jun
Min's brother who joins the Space Forces as a cadet, hiding his fox spirit nature. His disappearance motivates Min's journey.
Jang
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
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
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
Byung-Ho
A pilot who helps Min escape her home planet. His interactions with Min are deeply influenced by her use of Charm.
320
Novel • Fiction
Space • Far Future
2019
Middle grade
10-14 years
Continue your reading experience
Subscribe now to unlock the rest of this Study Guide plus our full library, which features expert-written summaries and analyses of 8,000+ additional titles.