Panel Pack (grades 3-5)

The Coldfire Curse

Graphic novels are often a gateway to enthusiastic readers. Read the book on your own, then join us monthly for discussion, games, and activities based on our book of the month.

September's book is The Coldfire Curse by Jordan Quinn. Register in person at the library. Registration opens August 17th. If your student has dietary restrictions that we need to accommodate, please let us know when you register.

About The Coldfire Curse:

As the pampered pet dragon of the Prince of Wrenly, Ruskin has never known life beyond the walls of the palace. Until the day a young dragon from Crestwood comes to the palace to plead for help. An evil curse has been unleashed in Crestwood and threatens to destroy all of Wrenly. Ruskin has a choice to make: stay safe at home in the palace, or try to help save his kingdom. For Ruskin, there is no choice. He knows he has to try and help if he can.

What Ruskin and his new dragon friends don’t yet realize is that the curse was awoken for one reason only—to put Ruskin in harm’s way. The mission to reverse the curse is far more dangerous than anyone realizes…in fact, it’s seemingly impossible. Why is Ruskin the target of these shadowy forces? And how far is Ruskin willing to go to save his kingdom?

Benefits of Reading Graphic Novels for Kids
1. Builds Strong Reading Skills

Encourages visual literacy
Helps with sequencing, cause and effect, and plot development
Offers context clues through illustrations
2. Supports Struggling and Reluctant Readers

Less text per page feels less intimidating
Pictures help decode meaning
Great for kids with dyslexia, ADHD, or language-based learning challenges
3. Expands Vocabulary

Exposes kids to rich language in a digestible format
Supports understanding of idioms, slang, and expressive dialogue
4. Develops Critical Thinking

Requires readers to infer emotions, motivations, and tone
Encourages comparing text and image for full meaning
5. Boosts Comprehension and Retention

Engaging visuals support memory
Helps kids recall and retell stories more easily
6. Encourages a Love of Reading

Fast-paced, fun, and often humorous
Builds confidence as kids finish books more quickly
7. Broadens Access to Diverse Stories

Graphic novels often explore unique cultures, identities, and perspectives
Gives kids windows into other worlds and mirrors of their own
8. Inspires Creativity and Artistic Expression

Kids often start drawing or making their own comics
Introduces storytelling elements like panel layout and dialogue pacing

Upcoming Events