A parent might reach for this book when their 7- to 10-year-old is ready to transition to chapter books and needs a high-interest story to build reading confidence. Based on the newest Pokémon animated series, this book follows new trainers Liko and Roy as they embark on an adventure aboard a fantastic airship. The story is a gentle introduction to themes of friendship, courage in the face of the unknown, and teamwork, all wrapped in a world your child likely already knows and loves. With accessible language and supportive illustrations, it's an excellent choice for newly independent readers or for a fun family read-aloud. It successfully models positive social skills like collaboration and bravery in a safe, exciting fantasy setting, making it a great alternative to screen time that still engages with a favorite interest.
Features cartoon-style Pokémon battles with special moves. No injuries or lasting harm are shown.
Sensitive Topics
Conflict is present but very mild. The antagonists, the Explorers, are more mischievous and determined than truly menacing. The threat is focused on retrieving an object, not harming the characters. The approach is metaphorical for facing challenges or navigating social disagreements, with resolutions that are always hopeful and centered on the safety of the group.
Ideal Reader
This is for the 7- to 9-year-old emerging reader who is a fan of the Pokémon franchise. It is perfectly suited for a child who is ready to leave picture books behind but may still be intimidated by dense pages of text. The book's structure, supported by frequent illustrations, makes it an ideal bridge. It will also appeal to children navigating new social situations, as it models making friends and finding your place in a new group.
Parent Prep
No preparation is needed. This book is an excellent entry point into the new series and requires no prior knowledge of the Pokémon universe. It can be read cold. There are no scenes that a parent would need to preview or explain in advance. A parent has a "reluctant reader" who loves Pokémon games and shows and wants to leverage that interest to encourage reading. Or, the child has just started watching the 'Pokémon Horizons' series and is eager for more stories about Liko and Roy. The parent is seeking a book with positive role models for friendship and teamwork.
Age Experience
A younger reader (age 7) will primarily connect with the action, the colorful characters, and the cute Pokémon. They will follow the straightforward plot of friendship and adventure. An older reader (age 9-10) will be more engaged by the central mystery of Liko's pendant and the world-building. They may also pick up on the subtle themes of identity and courage, relating to Liko's journey of self-discovery.
What Makes It Special
This book's key differentiator is its fresh narrative within the Pokémon world. By moving away from Ash Ketchum and the traditional gym-battle formula, it focuses on collaborative exploration and mystery-solving. This shift provides a unique story that prioritizes teamwork and curiosity over competition, offering a different and arguably more modern take on the beloved franchise.
Read plot summary
The story introduces Liko, a new student at Indigo Academy, who is given a mysterious, powerful pendant by her grandmother. Almost immediately, she is pursued by a group called the Explorers who want to steal it. She is rescued by the Rising Volt Tacklers, a team of adventurers who travel the world on an airship. Led by the charismatic Friede and his partner Captain Pikachu, they offer her protection and a place on their crew. Soon after, they meet Roy, an adventurous boy from a small island who dreams of becoming a Pokémon Trainer. The book chronicles their first meetings, the initial mysteries surrounding the pendant, and the formation of their new friendship as they begin their journey together.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.
Discussion Prompts
1
Liko was very nervous about going to a new school and choosing her first Pokémon partner. Have you ever felt nervous starting something new? What helps you feel brave?
2
The Rising Volt Tacklers all have different jobs on the airship. If you were part of their crew, what job would you want to have and why?
3
Roy's special treasure is a mysterious old Poké Ball. Why do you think he keeps it so safe even though he doesn't know what's inside?
4
When Liko is in trouble, her pendant glows to protect her. Do you think the pendant has its own power, or does it react to Liko's feelings? What makes you think so?
