Prairie Fire

Reviewed by: Sheila Dube - Springvale Public Library, Springvale, Southern Maine Library District

Review Date: July 30, 2015

Review

This is the second book in the dragon fantasy series by Johnston. Siobhan McQuid, bard of dragon slayer Owen, deals with her burned hands, her time in the Oil Watch service, the traditions of the past, and the fierce fire of the deadly Chinook dragon. Her innate talent of following her inner musical voice, that paired her with Owen in high school in the first book, slowly emerges to help her during this time when her future identity is conflicted. Johnston uses a modern day setting of Canada, in a world that has dragons, to discuss environmental issues, challenge readers to discern the power of the media/social media and illustrate the many facets of military service. Readers may want to read The Story of Owen for a deeper understanding of the loyalty between Siobhan and Owen. Reading the first book will explain some of the unspoken decisions Siobhan makes and the nature of dragon slayers in this alternate world. Fans will need the tissue box at one point, so be ready. Teen looking for dry humor and a story without vampires, sex or addictions will enjoy this one.

Overall Book Score: very good