Ace Dragon Ltd

Reviewed by: Patricia Temple - Long Island Community Library, Long Island, Southern Maine Library District

Review Date: February 9, 2016

Review

Ace, the sewer dwelling dragon meets young John, who typically walks busy streets with a sword lashed to his belt. In a very civilized conversation, through an Ace Dragon LTD sewer manhole cover, Ace and John arrange to meet and do battle in an empty lot. John wins the battles and is treated to a soaring ride as the dragon skywriters and eventually lands on a golden moon. Clever problem solving and Ace's special talent allow the two to land safely back on earth, all in time for supper. The story starts and ends with a discussion of what Ltd stands for and the meaning of the word. This "limited" word play will be lost on younger readers, but the story stands on its own in spite of that. This is a slightly longer format than most picture books, but would work well for any story hour, especially if there are dragon fans. This is a whimsical, absurd, delightful story of friendship and adventure by a well known and loved author and illustrator team. Originally published in Great Britain in 1980.

Overall Book Score: very good