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by John Fuller (Author), Aletha Heyman (Illustrator)
Gold Winner in the Middle Grade Fiction (Ages 8-12) category of the 2026 Nautilus Book Awards.
Winner in the Fiction/Non-Fiction - Children's/Middle Grade (Ages 8-12) category and Finalist in the Fiction - Spiritual category of the 2025 Independent Author Network Book of the Year Awards.
Honorable Mention in both Religion/Spirituality and Picture Books 6 & Older in the 2025 Royal Dragonfly Book Awards.
The Extraordinary Journey of an Ordinary Dragonfly is an enchanting all-ages fable that blends gentle storytelling with deeper layers of spiritual meaning.
In a hidden valley untouched by human hands, a little blue dragonfly awakens to his first day in his new life - newly transformed from a nymph in the water. He marvels at the world around him-yet questions stir within: Why am I here? What is my purpose?
Encouraged by a wise grasshopper, he journeys across the lake to the great willow tree, where the blind Mantis-an intuitive, quiet prophet-may hold the answers he seeks. Along the way, he meets a greedy toad, a proud red dragonfly, a vain butterfly, and a hungry yet empathetic bird. Each encounter tests his courage, compassion, and understanding of the world.
When he finally reaches the Mantis, the little dragonfly discovers that the answers he sought were never far away-they lived within him all along, waiting to be remembered.
Layered, reflective, and deeply resonant, this story is written to be enjoyed on multiple levels. Children will delight in the whimsical creatures and gentle adventure, while adult readers will recognize timeless themes of self-discovery, resilience, and awakening. Through simple moments and small characters, the tale explores big questions about purpose, transformation, and the quiet light that guides every soul.
A modern fable with a spiritual heartbeat, it reminds us that wisdom often hides in simplicity-and that even the smallest wings can carry the greatest truths.
Learn more at: www.thespiritualjourneyofadragonfly.com
