Children's Literature
Everything you need to know about dragons is included in this lushly packaged volume. Antiqued pages give the impression that this information has been passed from generation to generation. Would-be dragonologists will learn the five F's of dragonology: "fieldwork, foresight, forwardness, frankness, fatalities ('unless these are avoided, the student will make little progress.')." Western and various Eastern species are presented, along with the biology and physiology of dragons. In the section on the life cycle, there are lift-the-flap eggs that show its growth and development. The equipment needed to track dragons, and information on spells is provided. Readers will learn about Beowulf and George of Cappadocia who were famous dragonslayers, and about Merlin, Marco Polo and Fu Hsi who are important dragonologists. A bit of cautionary, tongue-in-cheek humor can be found in such phrases as, "It is not recommended to leave children and hungry dragons alone." The illustrations include a fold-out of a dragon, a dragon skin specimen, and a close look at the very important dragon eye. This is a must-have for all dragon lovers. 2003, Candlewick Press, Ages 10 to 14.
—Sharon Salluzzo