The Devil's Feathers

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

A muffled screech leads Maya and her cousin to a locked container filled with rare wildlife and a trail of clues pointing to a bikie gang known as the Scorpions. When no one believes them, the two teens launch their own covert investigation, uncovering secrets that stretch far beyond their rainforest hostel. Now they must expose the truth before the smugglers make their final move.

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.