A new addition to children’s speculative fiction, "Sky Riders," the second book in the Felix and the Future Agency series by Rachel Morrisroe, explores a fantastical mission to prevent a helicopter crash using extraordinary powers. Set for release on October 8 by Simon & Schuster, the novel combines elements of adventure, premonition, and mythical creatures to engage young readers.
The narrative centers on Felix, a newly appointed agent in the Future Agency, a secret government organization tasked with averting major disasters through visions of the future. Felix joins an elite unit known as the Sky Riders, who possess the unique ability to summon “celestaurs,” mythical beings composed of stardust, alongside the capacity to foresee impending crises.
In the story, Felix and the Sky Riders respond to an emergency involving a malfunctioning helicopter carrying a family, including a mother and her two children. As the aircraft experiences engine failure and begins to plummet uncontrollably toward a motorway crowded with vehicles, the team mobilizes quickly to prevent disaster. Demonstrating teamwork and the use of their celestaurs, each rider positions their creature to stabilize the helicopter’s descent and protect the people on board and below.
The novel highlights moments of tension and suspense, including Felix’s near fall from one of the celestaurs during the rescue effort. Throughout, the characters rely on their abilities and camaraderie to navigate the crisis, underscoring themes of responsibility, courage, and cooperation.
"Sky Riders" follows the debut book in the Felix and the Future Agency series and features illustrations by Paddy Donnelly. Morrisroe’s narrative aims to blend imaginative storytelling with elements of science fiction and fantasy, appealing to middle-grade readers who enjoy action-driven tales with moral undertones. It retails at £7.99 upon publication.
