Phoenix - Hardcover

SF Said is the Nestlé Smarties Book Prize–winning author of Varjak Paw. He was born in Lebanon in 1967, but has lived in London since he was two years old.

Dave McKean is a world-renowned artist, designer, and film director who has illustrated several books for children, including Coraline by Neil Gaiman, The Savage by David Almond, and Varjak Paw by SF Said. Dave McKean lives in England.

Coincidences abound in Said’s story, but the plentiful intergalactic action should easily hold readers’ attention, and McKean’s haunting illustrations strongly support the mystical nature of the adventure.
—Publishers Weekly

An astrological twist on an age-old story; the echoes of Star Wars, The Golden Compass and A Wrinkle in Time should win it fans.
—Kirkus Reviews

As the characters travel, revelations old and new slowly unravel and the secrets of Lucky’s own past untangle...For patient sci-fi fans searching for new characters in a unique world.
—School Library Journal

The narrative and evocative artwork come together to form an inspirational tale of embracing empathy and fighting despair, couched in a familiar “chosen-one” arc, that works both as an allegory and a straightforward adventure. McKean’s stylized illustrations add to the mythic tone of Lucky’s transformative experience.
—Booklist Online

This is a sweeping, startling book about a kid who is meant for things he could never have imagined.
—Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books

A well-crafted science fiction novel, Said takes the reader on an identity quest while packing in action and adventure. The world-building is seamless and integrates perfectly with the story...Similar to Fonda Lee’s Zeroboxer, science fiction fans and those who enjoy action novels will devour this book with fantastic artwork. Recommend it to most readers, as they are bound to discover something they like about this galactic adventure.
—VOYA