Fire and Heist by Sarah Beth Durst
Published by Crown Books for Young Readers on December 4th 2018
ISBN: 1101931000
Pages: 304
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Durst has written a fantasy that will appeal to male and female middle school readers.  Characters are fun but not shallow, determined to achieve personal goals, and exhibit special talents.   Sky is a teenage were-dragon who is often overshadowed by three older brothers yet she digs deep and finds her personal strengths.  All is not on the up and up as the Hawkins are part of a criminal community where worth is shown by the degree of difficulty associate with stealing.   A budding romance is treated gently and adds to the overall appeal and tension of the book.

Although the protagonist is female this fantasy will be enjoyed by all.  Middle and Junior High School media specialist will want to order this title as will public libraries where YA fantasy is collected.

Reviewed by Jan Hamilton,  retired youth services librarian in Scarborough, ME