Shadow of the Guardian

A high-interest short story for reluctant reader literacy. Includes a simple comprehension worksheet: multiple choice, vocab, short answers, creative task.

A midnight text shatters Willow and Julian Sterling’s safe, academic life. When they uncover their father’s secret war against a centuries-old organisation stealing the world’s most powerful technology, the twins are thrust into a deadly chase. Now they must decode his final clues, outrun professional killers, and decide what kind of spies they’re willing to become.

Written for reluctant readers (Lexile 600–700), this story is clear, engaging, and perfect for quick literacy lessons.

This resource includes a full Lobster Story Work worksheet to build confidence without overwhelming students.

Includes:

• Short story (1,500–2,000 words)
• Multiple-choice comprehension
• Fill-in-the-blank vocabulary task
• Short-answer thinking questions
• Optional creative task
• Clean, easy-print layout

Ideal for:

• Reluctant readers
• Boys’ literacy
• EAL/D and Learning Support
• Reading rotations or relief lessons

Why it works:

Clear, engaging writing + simple tasks = an easy win for disengaged readers.