DRAGONFELL

Where be dragons?

The Dragonfell is the high place where young Rafi Bywater goes to contemplate the memory of the teacup-hoarding dragon that once protected his village. One day two strangers show up accusing Rafi of having evil power from dragons and demanding to take him from the village. It is when Rafi is threatened by these strangers that previously unknown abilities ignite, literally, with a fire power that can hurt others. His father confirms that he is indeed dragon-touched. Then, as sudden flames consume the house of a village elder, she tells him that he must go find the dragon so it can once again protect the village. Accused of the destruction, Rafi is chased out of the village and goes on a quest in search of the dragon. Along the way, he saves Maud, a young scientist who had been offered as a sacrifice for another community’s local aging dragon. Maud accompanies Rafi to the city of Skarth, where answers lie and may prove, once and for all, if dragons are truly evil or protectors. What starts as a redundant trope of the kid who has powers linked to dragons is freshened by an unexpected twist that deepens the bond of friendship between Rafi and Maud. Rafi, who narrates in an assured past tense, is assumed white with red hair, and Maud has brown skin, black hair, and freckles.

An adventurous dragon tale that delivers an emotionally satisfying ending.