DRAGON MOON

Young Ping at last finds a haven for her beloved dragon hatchling Kai in this contrived but adequate conclusion to a trilogy that began with Dragon Keeper (2005). Guided by a cryptic map and a prophecy that the author, for some reason, reveals only in parts and after the events it describes have happened, Ping and Kai set out over vast stretches of drought-stricken land and into high ranges of mountains in hopes of reaching a place where other dragons still dwell, safe from rapacious hunters. Rehearsing previous episodes and running into previously met characters as they go, the two endure harrowing dangers and hardships—and Ping has to make a wrenching sacrifice—before their quest comes to an end. For all the tale’s uneven pacing and quality, Ping’s loyalty, intelligence and tenacity make her an admirable character, and dracophiles will enjoy watching the puppylike Kai at least begin (dragons are very long-lived) to come into his own. (glossary, Pinyin pronunciation guide) (Fantasy. 11-13)