The Moon Dragons

Reviewed by: Bernie Alie - Kennebunk Free Library, Kennebunk ME, Southern Maine Library District

Review Date: May 12, 2015

Review

A traveler tells a king of dragons living on a faraway mountaintop. Like a spoiled child, the king wants them for himself, so sends out hunters, herdsmen and mountain men. When they return with only a goat, the petulant king sends word to the far corners of the kingdom. A small, unkempt girl hears the call and announces that she will go look. Despite ridicule, she is pure of heart and treasures the dance of the dragons beyond any roomful of gold.

Dreamlike acrylic illustrations draw children into the tale. We see light shining on Alina's face and earnestness in the eyes of the villagers. Crowd scenes of villagers intent on Alina evoke the self-consciousness some children feel in front of their peers, but Alina stands strong, eyes confident. She knows the importance of mystery. A fine selection for group or one-on-one sharing.

Overall Book Score: very good