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Jason Steed #1
Fledgling
Tormented by his mother's death...
Taken for granted by his father...
Trained in deadly martial arts...
Jason Steed is looking for a place to call home. He finds what he's looking for in the Sea Cadets-an elite group of British youngsters being groomed for lifelong service in the military. But when a routine training exercise goes awry, Jason finds himself in the middle of a secret mission. The future of the world hangs in the balance...and Jason might be the only one who can save it.
Taken for granted by his father...
Trained in deadly martial arts...
Jason Steed is looking for a place to call home. He finds what he's looking for in the Sea Cadets-an elite group of British youngsters being groomed for lifelong service in the military. But when a routine training exercise goes awry, Jason finds himself in the middle of a secret mission. The future of the world hangs in the balance...and Jason might be the only one who can save it.
220 pages, Paperback
First published September 10, 2008
88 people are currently reading
4415 people want to read
About the author
Mark A. Cooper
22 books166 followersMark A. Cooper is ranked alongside Enid Blyton and Anthony Horowitz as "The most original and best spy-kids authors of the century." (New York Times).
The first book in his Jason Steed series was self-published in 2008. Since then the series has won over fans across the world with its mix of action, emotion and coming of age originality.
Mark was snapped up by the Barbara Zitwer agency and since has written 4 more in the series now published by Sourcebooks.
Mark has spent many years interviewing ex-Edelweiss Pirate and Hitler Youth members across the globe and he is seen as the foremost expert on The Edelweiss Pirates. The novels are fiction based on actual events that happened between 1936-1945 in Germany.
Fictionreviwer.com named 'Fledgling Jason Steed' Young adult book of the year 2009. The book was also voted as finalist in the 2009 'Indie book Awards'. In 2013 in the Beverly Hills Book Awards it came first in Juvenile fiction.
The first book in his Jason Steed series was self-published in 2008. Since then the series has won over fans across the world with its mix of action, emotion and coming of age originality.
Mark was snapped up by the Barbara Zitwer agency and since has written 4 more in the series now published by Sourcebooks.
Mark has spent many years interviewing ex-Edelweiss Pirate and Hitler Youth members across the globe and he is seen as the foremost expert on The Edelweiss Pirates. The novels are fiction based on actual events that happened between 1936-1945 in Germany.
Fictionreviwer.com named 'Fledgling Jason Steed' Young adult book of the year 2009. The book was also voted as finalist in the 2009 'Indie book Awards'. In 2013 in the Beverly Hills Book Awards it came first in Juvenile fiction.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 136 reviews
June 4, 2025
Wong Tong had always taught him to use the element of surprise. “Surprise even yourself,” he had said. “It’s the best weapon you will ever have.”
This book is my biggest surprise and find on goodreads this year! Jason Steed absolutely stole my heart.
We first meet Jason at 5 years old in Hong Kong. A little blond haired cutie pie with blue, blue eyes filled with loss, loneliness and strength. So much strength! His mother died during child birth and his Dad is a military man—always away. But somehow, someway Jason has the biggest heart and sense of honor and goodness. In Hong Kong, Jason learns Cantonese from his nannies and martial arts from different masters and dojos. Karate’s moves, grace, strength, and discipline speak to Jason. It helps him find peace and balance. He studies form after form. Not only does he absorb each art’s technique and style, he learns honor and tradition as well. Over the years, Jason learns when to stand up and defend himself and when to stand down. Lessons that he takes to heart to defend himself and others. Again and again—trouble finds Jason. But trouble doesn’t know who it’s messing with!
The stand out ingredient for me was the relationship between father and son. Ray (Dad) and Jason’s time on the page is heartbreaking and adorable. They don’t say or express emotion often, but when they do….*sigh* have a box of tissues ready! I cried and cried! I realize this might sound awful, but hells-bells I just did not see this emotional power and punch coming at all! I wanted a light, little book to read for the holiday season with action and fun. And that’s all in here. But WOW! So is the emotion. I got walloped!!!! Haha….in a wonderful reading world way though. I found a book to love and a character to follow and carry with me in my heart and head.
Okay this is turning into one of my rambles. Haha….Let me try to pull it together. Fledgling is book one in a series I plan to hunt down and devour ASAP. A book that pulls readers in from page one. From land to sea to sky! This book has it all! A journey that takes us from Hong Kong to Britain with adventure, danger, friendship, princesses, romance, tears, death, and carrot cake! Mr. Cooper captures this fierce, little spirit on the page with such care and power. AND he is not afraid to show death, mistakes, and weaknesses. Mistakes can help us learn and Mr. Cooper shows that again and again. Jason’s Dad is far from perfect, but he is not a bad man either. Both Jason and Ray change and grow so much. I can’t wait for more. More action! Suspense! And love!
“That’s no little kid. That’s Jason Steed, the biggest damn hero you will ever see!”
Highly recommended. A true shining gem of a book.
**Re-read June 2025**
This kid! Haha... He made me smile, laugh, and cry all over again. I love this book and character. I had forgotten just how much. He gut punched me again. :)
February 28, 2018
A fast fun read that sets the stage for all the books to follow.
The book introduces Jason Steed whose mother died giving him breath. Jason's father is a career Naval officer and is gone for months at a time leaving Jason to be raised by nannies. At age five, while his father is stationed in Hong Kong, Jason starts learning Taekwondo. This starts a love affair with the art and he is soon awarded his black belt. He then starts studying other forms of martial arts, quickly obtaining black belts in those forms too.
It is during this growth process that we learn about Jason. It's quite easy to become attached to him. As someone with two black belts, I can easily Identify with him. I've stopped someone from being bullied at school and then been suspended because I was fighting. So when it happens to Jason it's like "oh Jason I've been there and done that."
When Jason is eleven he joins the Sea Cadets a program designed to groom young men for lifelong service in the British Navy. It's when this group of cadets travels to the ocean off the Jakarta coast that Jason gets to show his true metal.
The plot was fast-paced and definitely held my attention probably more than any other book I've read in quite some time. The characters are well developed considering how short the book is. I'm looking forward to learning more about them in future books.
I'd highly recommend this book for tweens and young teen boys who enjoy action-packed stories. Guys, you're going to love it!
I can't wait to start book two!
December 2, 2010
This is a brilliant read! I felt a wide range of emotion while reading this action packed book. Mark does a such a great job at showing both Jason's life now in the present, and his life growing up, and it sets the tone for the resilient young man he really is. It also show cases the broken and then on the mend relationship he has with his father, Lieutenant Commander Steed of the HMS ARK Royal, based out of London, England.
By the time Jason was almost 8, he earned two black belts and a 2nd Dan black belt. He can speak numerous languages including Chinese (which is where he grew up, until his father moved him back to the house he grew up in London, England), Japanese, English and more. He can complete an military assault course in less than 7 mins, and fly a simulated plane. Jason starts off broken and throws himself into martial arts, where he learns a great deal about his own personal inner strength. This strength mixed with his strength prove to be a life saver with Jason finds himself among an elite group from the British army, in enemy territory.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading Jason Steed. He has a great young male voice that many tween readers and even teen readers will enjoy. While the martial arts was amazing, and the war scenes brutally awesome and very real, being set in the 1960's-1970's make the book appealing to older readers. Jason and his Dad are invited to the Royal Palace more than once, and the Royal family have minor rules. I liked that Princess Catherine and Jason have a sweet, innocent connection or "puppy dog" love.
At only 11 years old, this young hero has his head planted firmly on his shoulders, but also enjoys doing what some of the kids his age do. He is a boy after all and with his best friend Scott, they do have a few minor mishaps. There's nothing Jason can't get handle and through the course of his story, I was moved to tears a few times. I got so caught up in Fledgling, that I had to remind myself that Jason Steed's story isn't real, as often times it felt like it was.
Fans of Alex Rider will be highly entertained with Jason Steed. I highly recommend this book, but be warned there is a few war scenes and while they're not all gory, they are real. I'm looking forward to reading more of Jason's story.
By the time Jason was almost 8, he earned two black belts and a 2nd Dan black belt. He can speak numerous languages including Chinese (which is where he grew up, until his father moved him back to the house he grew up in London, England), Japanese, English and more. He can complete an military assault course in less than 7 mins, and fly a simulated plane. Jason starts off broken and throws himself into martial arts, where he learns a great deal about his own personal inner strength. This strength mixed with his strength prove to be a life saver with Jason finds himself among an elite group from the British army, in enemy territory.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading Jason Steed. He has a great young male voice that many tween readers and even teen readers will enjoy. While the martial arts was amazing, and the war scenes brutally awesome and very real, being set in the 1960's-1970's make the book appealing to older readers. Jason and his Dad are invited to the Royal Palace more than once, and the Royal family have minor rules. I liked that Princess Catherine and Jason have a sweet, innocent connection or "puppy dog" love.
At only 11 years old, this young hero has his head planted firmly on his shoulders, but also enjoys doing what some of the kids his age do. He is a boy after all and with his best friend Scott, they do have a few minor mishaps. There's nothing Jason can't get handle and through the course of his story, I was moved to tears a few times. I got so caught up in Fledgling, that I had to remind myself that Jason Steed's story isn't real, as often times it felt like it was.
Fans of Alex Rider will be highly entertained with Jason Steed. I highly recommend this book, but be warned there is a few war scenes and while they're not all gory, they are real. I'm looking forward to reading more of Jason's story.
May 13, 2013
I never read any books until my teacher recommended this for me, After the first page I was hoked n Jason Steed books and now I love spy books, Alex Rider, CHERUB, Artemus Fowl, Jason Steed comes top of the list. The story is very real life, the story grows on you. I would recommend for boy 10-14 if you are like me and don't like to read books this is a good start, my grades have gone up in English to.
February 2, 2010
I read the reviews so bought the book, although it was not easy to get hold of. I eneded up getting it from Amazon.
The story is amazing, why this book is not a best seller is beyond me, probably because its self published.
I really loved the story, the character Jason Steed. The imagination is allowed to run wild, the story is cute, romantic, sad and exciting.
Its the best book I have read since Harry Potter. I cant say enough good things about it. In one word; Awesome.
The story is amazing, why this book is not a best seller is beyond me, probably because its self published.
I really loved the story, the character Jason Steed. The imagination is allowed to run wild, the story is cute, romantic, sad and exciting.
Its the best book I have read since Harry Potter. I cant say enough good things about it. In one word; Awesome.
December 20, 2015
This was an amazing book! The flow of the story, the development of characters and their relationship with one another are all spot on. One flaw I found though is the unrealistic nature of the plot. At age 11, Jason Steed is already a multilingual martial artist, earning several black belts, flying planes, etc. Of course, he's a prodigy but it gets exaggerated sometimes. Despite this flaw, I really enjoyed reading this book. I hope to find more books like this.
December 22, 2014
I feel bad bringing down the super high rating on this one. It does deserve lots of stars as it so clearly delights kids. When was the last time you looked at reviews and found the majority written by grade school boys who described themselves as not liking books?
Fledgling is the first installment in an initially self-published series.
Jason Steed was born in Hong Kong in tragic circumstances: his mother dies during delivery. His British military dad is filled with grief and leaves the boy to be raised by a Cantonese nanny. At five Jason develops a passion for martial arts. The plot is action packed and cleverly begins with a snippet of the dramatic conclusion. The writing is not glamorous, but given the author apparently wrote this for his son, without thoughts of commercial publishing, AND the fact that it so obviously captivates readers between the ages of 8 and 14, I give him a pass.
The Jason Steed series is perfect for kids who love Alex Ryder and will go on to love Ender's Game. There is violence, some minor cussing and a tame-ok I really mean bloodlessly saccharine and slightly icky, cuz the kids are 10-romance with a princess. I have my fingers triply crossed that Princess Catherine gets to bash someone over the head in a future installment and a quadruple hope that she and Jason decide they are better off as friends and she winds up going out with his math-whiz buddy Scott- but I'm not holding out much hope.
So as a middle-aged female feminist that's read a lot I can't give this five stars. It falls too firmly in the macho-wish-fullfillment - haven't I seen this in a movie, camp, but I heartily endorse it as a great choice to lure reluctant readers into a book and give them some hope that all adults might not be completely boring and useless. Thank you Mr. Cooper
Fledgling is the first installment in an initially self-published series.
Jason Steed was born in Hong Kong in tragic circumstances: his mother dies during delivery. His British military dad is filled with grief and leaves the boy to be raised by a Cantonese nanny. At five Jason develops a passion for martial arts. The plot is action packed and cleverly begins with a snippet of the dramatic conclusion. The writing is not glamorous, but given the author apparently wrote this for his son, without thoughts of commercial publishing, AND the fact that it so obviously captivates readers between the ages of 8 and 14, I give him a pass.
The Jason Steed series is perfect for kids who love Alex Ryder and will go on to love Ender's Game. There is violence, some minor cussing and a tame-ok I really mean bloodlessly saccharine and slightly icky, cuz the kids are 10-romance with a princess. I have my fingers triply crossed that Princess Catherine gets to bash someone over the head in a future installment and a quadruple hope that she and Jason decide they are better off as friends and she winds up going out with his math-whiz buddy Scott- but I'm not holding out much hope.
So as a middle-aged female feminist that's read a lot I can't give this five stars. It falls too firmly in the macho-wish-fullfillment - haven't I seen this in a movie, camp, but I heartily endorse it as a great choice to lure reluctant readers into a book and give them some hope that all adults might not be completely boring and useless. Thank you Mr. Cooper
February 16, 2016
Ok let me just start off by saying WOW!!!! This book took me by total surprise! I was kinda expecting something like the Alex Rider novels written by Anthony Horrowitz but this book is in some ways very different. The book Fledgling by Mark A Cooper is about a young lad named Jason Steed who is a Marital Arts expert who is the son of a British navy Captain I think? I read this book like 5 months ago so correct me if I'm wrong. Anyway you can probably find the rest of the information at the book description at the Fledgling page soooo.. BLAH BLAH BLAH BLAH.. Ok so I finished this book in like a day and a half because I just could not stop! I'm not kidding you cannot stop it's like if you started reading this book and you planned to stop at page 30 for the day by that time you stop its already page 130. It's so action packed that you'll straight away look for the sequels. If you like action packed books and are a young reader you'd enjoy this book very much even if you don't I highly recommend that you do pick this book up and just see how much you'll fall in love with it
May 17, 2014
I really enjoyed this story. There’s plenty of action, adventure, and emotion throughout. Jason Steed faces many challenges growing up. Adults treat him unfairly at times, he has a complex relationship with his father, and he finds himself threatened with physical danger. He dedicates himself to learning martial arts and several languages so that he can join the Special Forces or Secret Service when he grows up. He has a loyal friend and an intriguing girlfriend. Then when he joins the Sea Cadets, he is thrown into a situation that will require great skill and resolve to survive.
It's a great story. I believe fans of Alex Rider will enjoy this story. I’m looking forward to the next book in the series.
It's a great story. I believe fans of Alex Rider will enjoy this story. I’m looking forward to the next book in the series.
July 18, 2010
Jason Steed: Flegling is a book full of history, action, military combat and of course Karate. The book takes you through Jason's first eleven years of life. He starts out in Hong Kong learning karate, jujitsu and tae kwon do (just to name a few).
Right away, you know there is something different about him. He is stuborn, loves carrot cake and sneaks into a military base at night to play on the flight simulator. This just the beginning though. From this, he ends up beating unthinkable odds.
Along with a little bit of English Royalty added in too!
I won't give away anymore. This story is full of surprises and great moments that will linger in your mind well past the hours you should be sleeping. I actually woke up laughing yesterday morning thinking about the Barbershop scene.
I cried, I laughed, my heart beat a little faster than normal sometimes and I finally decided I liked his father when he let Jason make his own decision in the end.
This is an excellent book for anyone who likes European war stories, young adult novels and books filled with action and adventure. Plus, I see a series in the making. Over all, this is a book that can be easily enjoyed by someone as young as ten but as old as eighty.
Right away, you know there is something different about him. He is stuborn, loves carrot cake and sneaks into a military base at night to play on the flight simulator. This just the beginning though. From this, he ends up beating unthinkable odds.
Along with a little bit of English Royalty added in too!
I won't give away anymore. This story is full of surprises and great moments that will linger in your mind well past the hours you should be sleeping. I actually woke up laughing yesterday morning thinking about the Barbershop scene.
I cried, I laughed, my heart beat a little faster than normal sometimes and I finally decided I liked his father when he let Jason make his own decision in the end.
This is an excellent book for anyone who likes European war stories, young adult novels and books filled with action and adventure. Plus, I see a series in the making. Over all, this is a book that can be easily enjoyed by someone as young as ten but as old as eighty.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 2, 2015
RATE:5 Starssss
This book is about a young boy named Jason Steele. I like the way it was set up. How it starts when he was like 5 and he just grows to eleven. Really enjoyed seeing how he became who he was. Admittedly, I kinda hated Ray at first. He was resentful towards his son because his wife died in childbirth. However, he grew he learned he loved his son. Jason and the entire book sort of reminded me of enders game. Mostly because he was so young to accomplish so much. This kid is badass. Even more so than percy. He can speak like 6 languages and knows like 6 styles of fighting. Everything veered into the serious Lane when people started dying though. That NEVER happens in books like this(excluding enders game ) I was sad for him. And mad at how much people underestimated him, but it was funny. Did anyone else hate that first bitch nanny. Jason would have never hit his head, if she didn't try to hit him. Great book overall, recommend to everybody. Will continue series definitely. Probably today.
This book is about a young boy named Jason Steele. I like the way it was set up. How it starts when he was like 5 and he just grows to eleven. Really enjoyed seeing how he became who he was. Admittedly, I kinda hated Ray at first. He was resentful towards his son because his wife died in childbirth. However, he grew he learned he loved his son. Jason and the entire book sort of reminded me of enders game. Mostly because he was so young to accomplish so much. This kid is badass. Even more so than percy. He can speak like 6 languages and knows like 6 styles of fighting. Everything veered into the serious Lane when people started dying though. That NEVER happens in books like this(excluding enders game ) I was sad for him. And mad at how much people underestimated him, but it was funny. Did anyone else hate that first bitch nanny. Jason would have never hit his head, if she didn't try to hit him. Great book overall, recommend to everybody. Will continue series definitely. Probably today.
November 3, 2010
One of the best novels I have read. The story is original, fun, fast and emotional at times. The 'puppy dog' young love and humor came as a nice surprise, mostly because it's a boy's action book.
Jason grows on you and becomes real, the author paints a picture with words, the action takes the reader to another level.
My greatest part is when Jason is on the ship with the other Sea cadets, and they are given a training session on hand - hand combat by a bully drill instructor, I won't spoil the plot but it will put a big smile on your face.
Recommend to people who like Alex Rider, Jason Bourne, Karate Kid and Harry Potter
Jason grows on you and becomes real, the author paints a picture with words, the action takes the reader to another level.
My greatest part is when Jason is on the ship with the other Sea cadets, and they are given a training session on hand - hand combat by a bully drill instructor, I won't spoil the plot but it will put a big smile on your face.
Recommend to people who like Alex Rider, Jason Bourne, Karate Kid and Harry Potter
November 23, 2020
I really liked this book. I am not the only one that liked this book. My cousin and my nephew enjoyed this book as well. All three of us can not wait till the third book comes out. We want to know what trouble will Jason get up to in the next book.
August 24, 2012
1) Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
2) Genre: Young Adult
3) Synopsis: Jason Steed may be young but the fate of the world may rest on his shoulders. Can a teenager save the world from nuclear war?
4) Feelings: Starting out I didn't think I was going to like this book but the more I read the better I liked it. I am a fan of the "Alex Rider" series and this is similar to that. Maybe not quite as fantastical as the "Alex Rider" but still hard to believe.
5) Final recommendation: Fun and interesting YA read. If you are an "Alex Rider" fan give this a try.
Ryan James Burt
Husband, Father, and Writer
http://ryanjamesburt.wordpress.com/
2) Genre: Young Adult
3) Synopsis: Jason Steed may be young but the fate of the world may rest on his shoulders. Can a teenager save the world from nuclear war?
4) Feelings: Starting out I didn't think I was going to like this book but the more I read the better I liked it. I am a fan of the "Alex Rider" series and this is similar to that. Maybe not quite as fantastical as the "Alex Rider" but still hard to believe.
5) Final recommendation: Fun and interesting YA read. If you are an "Alex Rider" fan give this a try.
Ryan James Burt
Husband, Father, and Writer
http://ryanjamesburt.wordpress.com/
March 5, 2015
I love this novel, it's coming of age, action, adventure and a small amount of cupid love. Author's style has been compared to Anthony Horowitz (readers have actually theorized it's Horowitz using a psuedonym).
However Cooper's style is more direct and in your face, he tells it like it is, not a classic writer but a writer for todays young readers. His ability to keep young normally reluctant readers is very impressive.
A truly original story written for boys, in a style of Anthony Horowitz and Enid Bylton with more action for todays market. A great series and a novel that will always remain a favorite of mine.
However Cooper's style is more direct and in your face, he tells it like it is, not a classic writer but a writer for todays young readers. His ability to keep young normally reluctant readers is very impressive.
A truly original story written for boys, in a style of Anthony Horowitz and Enid Bylton with more action for todays market. A great series and a novel that will always remain a favorite of mine.
August 31, 2015
I'm so glad I've read this book after hunting it down on the internet! (Couldn't find it in Waterstones/WHSMITH?!)
This book made me realise my unacknowledged empathy for deaths of children in Wars. The massacre of the Sea Cadets hit home with me. I had to stop reading for a while to reflect on the unnamed heroes of wars who never had the chance to grow up.
I love the friendship between Scott and Jason, how they make a great team! Scott has the brains and Jason has the brawn!
This book has also taught me to achieve goals for yourself, not to impress anyone else.
This book made me realise my unacknowledged empathy for deaths of children in Wars. The massacre of the Sea Cadets hit home with me. I had to stop reading for a while to reflect on the unnamed heroes of wars who never had the chance to grow up.
I love the friendship between Scott and Jason, how they make a great team! Scott has the brains and Jason has the brawn!
This book has also taught me to achieve goals for yourself, not to impress anyone else.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 13, 2011
This book was AWESOME!
You'll definitely like it if you're an Alex Rider fan!
It's full of action and kept me up at night reading for hours!! I finished it in one sitting!
THAT'S how good it was!
Definitely read it sometime soon!!!
You'll definitely like it if you're an Alex Rider fan!
It's full of action and kept me up at night reading for hours!! I finished it in one sitting!
THAT'S how good it was!
Definitely read it sometime soon!!!
July 19, 2014
4.5
This novel delivered more than I was expecting. And it was extremely relatable for a novel meant for kids. Definitely worth picking up for the action packed ending alone. Hear more about it in my most recent booktalk: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lOIPV...
Thanks if you do
This novel delivered more than I was expecting. And it was extremely relatable for a novel meant for kids. Definitely worth picking up for the action packed ending alone. Hear more about it in my most recent booktalk: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lOIPV...
Thanks if you do
July 4, 2011
How did I miss this one, this novel is nothing but brilliant, the character Jason Steed jumped out of the book, grabbed me by the throat and pinned me to the chair. Once I started I couldn't put it down. Then when I finished it I read a second time.
It goes clearly into my favorite books of all time, the novel is written in such a way that you think you are watching a movie. My nephew went ona nd on about how good this book was, he is not really the reading type. He read it and has now started to read more books in the same genre.
I am not sure when the second Jason Steed book is coming out, but will be putting in my order as soon as it does. I have now managed to get the older longer version that the author originally published in 2008. The story is longer in that version, maybe a little slower but I think has a better ending on the aircraft. That said this version is awesome, I suspect they cut out that part so it matches a future film that I am sure they will be making on this novel.
What is strange to me is that this book is not known in large circles, I am a teacher and none of my colleges knew of it. The Indie Award it won in 2009 was well justified, now it's gone mainstream it has lost some of the mystery to who wrote it? many have claimed it to have been written by another author who also writes YA books. I won't mention his name as it's unfair to the author Mark A. Cooper who did actually write it.
It goes clearly into my favorite books of all time, the novel is written in such a way that you think you are watching a movie. My nephew went ona nd on about how good this book was, he is not really the reading type. He read it and has now started to read more books in the same genre.
I am not sure when the second Jason Steed book is coming out, but will be putting in my order as soon as it does. I have now managed to get the older longer version that the author originally published in 2008. The story is longer in that version, maybe a little slower but I think has a better ending on the aircraft. That said this version is awesome, I suspect they cut out that part so it matches a future film that I am sure they will be making on this novel.
What is strange to me is that this book is not known in large circles, I am a teacher and none of my colleges knew of it. The Indie Award it won in 2009 was well justified, now it's gone mainstream it has lost some of the mystery to who wrote it? many have claimed it to have been written by another author who also writes YA books. I won't mention his name as it's unfair to the author Mark A. Cooper who did actually write it.
September 4, 2009
This was a great book with a child hero. I don't buy it when kids have "super powers" and save the world, but Jason Steed worked hard to become the kid he is. He is a neglected child who wants to please his Kung Fu Master and lives next to a Marine Base where he watches them train. Then he does a little night training when he can't sleep.
Though he is very composed for an eleven-year-old, I liked him. I'm not sure who I would recommend this book for. It is a fast-paced, exciting read...my only reason for not recommending it for young kids is that he is finds himself in very adult situations. He watches a friend die in his arms and he deals with a lot of grown-up blood and gore. My 8-year-old would love the character, but the storyling would freak him out.
Though he is very composed for an eleven-year-old, I liked him. I'm not sure who I would recommend this book for. It is a fast-paced, exciting read...my only reason for not recommending it for young kids is that he is finds himself in very adult situations. He watches a friend die in his arms and he deals with a lot of grown-up blood and gore. My 8-year-old would love the character, but the storyling would freak him out.
October 1, 2015
This book transformed my liking of books. This book felt so real, the way the author described the environments, characters and objects of the story, made it more interesting. This is like Alex rider but without any devices, if the two were to battle in a fight without gadgets, Jason would win, in my perspective. This story was not boring at all, it had suspense and was enjoyable to read. Since I don't like 5 star rating, I would do a 10/10 rating system
Overall: 9.5/10 rounded 10/10
Overall: 9.5/10 rounded 10/10
October 12, 2014
One of my absolute favorite books. Read it again and again.
October 28, 2010
This is a brilliant read! I felt a wide range of emotion while reading this action packed book. Mark does a such a great job at showing both Jason's life now in the present, and his life growing up, and it sets the tone for the resilient young man he really is. It also show cases the broken and then on the mend relationship he has with his father, Lieutenant Commander Steed of the HMS ARK Royal, based out of London, England.
By the time Jason was almost 8, he earned two black belts and a 2nd Dan black belt. He can speak numerous languages including Chinese (which is where he grew up, until his father moved him back to the house he grew up in London, England), Japanese, English and more. He can complete an military assault course in less than 7 mins, and fly a simulated plane. Jason starts off broken and throws himself into martial arts, where he learns a great deal about his own personal inner strength. This strength mixed with his strength prove to be a life saver with Jason finds himself among an elite group from the British army, in enemy territory.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading Jason Steed. He has a great young male voice that many tween readers and even teen readers will enjoy. While the martial arts was amazing, and the war scenes brutally awesome and very real, being set in the 1960's-1970's make the book appealing to older readers. Jason and his Dad are invited to the Royal Palace more than once, and the Royal family have minor rules. I liked that Princess Catherine and Jason have a sweet, innocent connection or "puppy dog" love.
At only 11 years old, this young hero has his head planted firmly on his shoulders, but also enjoys doing what some of the kids his age do. He is a boy after all and with his best friend Scott, they do have a few minor mishaps. There's nothing Jason can't get handle and through the course of his story, I was moved to tears a few times. I got so caught up in Fledgling, that I had to remind myself that Jason Steed's story isn't real, as often times it felt like it was.
Fans of Alex Rider will be highly entertained with Jason Steed. I highly recommend this book, but be warned there is a few war scenes and while they're not all gory, they are real. I'm looking forward to reading more of Jason's story.
By the time Jason was almost 8, he earned two black belts and a 2nd Dan black belt. He can speak numerous languages including Chinese (which is where he grew up, until his father moved him back to the house he grew up in London, England), Japanese, English and more. He can complete an military assault course in less than 7 mins, and fly a simulated plane. Jason starts off broken and throws himself into martial arts, where he learns a great deal about his own personal inner strength. This strength mixed with his strength prove to be a life saver with Jason finds himself among an elite group from the British army, in enemy territory.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading Jason Steed. He has a great young male voice that many tween readers and even teen readers will enjoy. While the martial arts was amazing, and the war scenes brutally awesome and very real, being set in the 1960's-1970's make the book appealing to older readers. Jason and his Dad are invited to the Royal Palace more than once, and the Royal family have minor rules. I liked that Princess Catherine and Jason have a sweet, innocent connection or "puppy dog" love.
At only 11 years old, this young hero has his head planted firmly on his shoulders, but also enjoys doing what some of the kids his age do. He is a boy after all and with his best friend Scott, they do have a few minor mishaps. There's nothing Jason can't get handle and through the course of his story, I was moved to tears a few times. I got so caught up in Fledgling, that I had to remind myself that Jason Steed's story isn't real, as often times it felt like it was.
Fans of Alex Rider will be highly entertained with Jason Steed. I highly recommend this book, but be warned there is a few war scenes and while they're not all gory, they are real. I'm looking forward to reading more of Jason's story.
March 13, 2009
Highly recommended for tweens and teens, or anyone who likes Indiana Jones movies. "Fledgling, A Jason Steed Adventure" is a British action/adventure story featuring the multi-talented 11yo Jason Steed. It's a tale of friendship, loyalty, bravery, military duty, hardship, heroism, father love, and personal loss. Jason is a blond, blue-eyed super kid. A karate brown belt at age 5, he holds advanced belts in karate and jujitsu by age 11. Brought up in Hong Kong, he speaks Chinese among other languages. Despite his small size, his prodigious talents in the martial arts stand him in good stead as he gets involved in one scrape after another -- all of them learning experiences. But "Fledgling" is more than a bloody adventure story (and there's lots of blood). Jason must come to grips with his military father's own problems and prolonged absences. Jason is helped along by his faithful friend, Scott, who teaches him how to speak to grownups, as well as the royal princess whom he falls for big-time. The climax of the novel is a real whizz bang! Note to American readers: the author is English, so when he says "He landed on the floor" it typically means "He landed on the ground!"
May 15, 2011
Fledgling Jason Steed is Prince Williams favorite book, so I thoght if it's good enough for him it's good enough for me.
When I bought it I was surprised to see it's a young adult book for the 9-15 range. Prince William is 28 so whats the catch?
Nothing... The book is amazing, it's like no other book, Jason Steed is an great character, the author keeps the reader on the edge of his seat, it's like watching a movie you can picture everything.
It's not far fetched, I like the idea of it being based around the 1970's, thats a nice touch. I recommend this book for action / fun loving fans.
When I bought it I was surprised to see it's a young adult book for the 9-15 range. Prince William is 28 so whats the catch?
Nothing... The book is amazing, it's like no other book, Jason Steed is an great character, the author keeps the reader on the edge of his seat, it's like watching a movie you can picture everything.
It's not far fetched, I like the idea of it being based around the 1970's, thats a nice touch. I recommend this book for action / fun loving fans.
April 14, 2014
I thought this was an Awsome book I was always rooting for Jason.
Writing was very different to others books I have read and I liked that. Mostly because I didn't have to read ten pages to get thru the action scenes it never dragged. In the beginning I honestly thought oh gosh this is a war book, this is going to be boring but as soon as it went to chapter one after the prologue the way it started it captured my attention and I started to hate the dad and was rooting for Jason right away. I thought Jason was Awsome really mature, stubborn but determined and accomplishing things no one his age can. I give this a five I couldn't put it down.Can't wait till I start the next one.
Writing was very different to others books I have read and I liked that. Mostly because I didn't have to read ten pages to get thru the action scenes it never dragged. In the beginning I honestly thought oh gosh this is a war book, this is going to be boring but as soon as it went to chapter one after the prologue the way it started it captured my attention and I started to hate the dad and was rooting for Jason right away. I thought Jason was Awsome really mature, stubborn but determined and accomplishing things no one his age can. I give this a five I couldn't put it down.Can't wait till I start the next one.
August 18, 2011
Original story, fast, fun but above all very emotional. I really enjoyed this Jason Steed adventure and I am looking forward to reading the next Jason Steed book.
I was suprised how this book has stayed under the spot light until I read that Prince William has called it his favorite book.
The story is based around the 1970's, that brngs a littel mystery, no cell phones, and strange music. Jason is a very typical boy, who enjoys martial arts and carrot cake. The best part of the story is the back ground I really enjoyed reading about his life.
I was suprised how this book has stayed under the spot light until I read that Prince William has called it his favorite book.
The story is based around the 1970's, that brngs a littel mystery, no cell phones, and strange music. Jason is a very typical boy, who enjoys martial arts and carrot cake. The best part of the story is the back ground I really enjoyed reading about his life.
August 1, 2011
This was a story all boys will love. It is like James Bond and The karate kid in one. This is a story about an eleven year old boy who proves himself beyond his years. He gets the girl and saves many lives in the process. I dont remember how I learned of this book, but I can not wait to read the next book. I would recommend this any child who loves adventure and is okay with a few gory blood shed stories. Awesome!
September 26, 2011
I had written a review for this book, but it seems to have disappeared.
I really liked this book. My edition is different to the one here, in that is was not an ebook.
This book is very fast paced, short on adjectives, full of verbs and action, great read for kids with a hankering for adventure, though there is some confronting violence and deaths.
I look forward toreading the next in the sereis, if it ever gets released.
I really liked this book. My edition is different to the one here, in that is was not an ebook.
This book is very fast paced, short on adjectives, full of verbs and action, great read for kids with a hankering for adventure, though there is some confronting violence and deaths.
I look forward toreading the next in the sereis, if it ever gets released.
September 14, 2013
For a book written for boys I was surprised how much I enjoyed it. Jason Steed sounds hotter than Edward Cullen, a tiny bit of awkward romance develops between him and the Queens daughter its so sweet. The story is fast, and has a very powerful emotional scene that brought me to tears.
All boys will like this, he takes on muggers, bullys and later what seems like half an army, I enjoyed it.
All boys will like this, he takes on muggers, bullys and later what seems like half an army, I enjoyed it.
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