Customer Reviews

Dragon

5 star:		(5)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
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1 star:		(0)

 

 

This is one of the finest picture books our family and friends have ever experienced. We were so bowled over by this work that it's difficult to know where to start. To the extent that the author is an accomplished and successful artist, it is an understatement to suggest that the colorful, engaging art is superb -- the more you study each panel, the more you see. As for the story, it's truly a gem -- a finely spun tale of fantasy, with a satisfying lesson for young readers. The heir to throne in a mystical land of elves, unicorns, and wise owls must confront the fierce, flying, fire-breathing dragon, with ramifications of significance to the young prince, the angry dragon, and the kingdom between the worlds. It's a fable filled with mystery, adventure, fantasy, and intrigue artfully told without frightening young readers or glorifying violence. Treat yourself to this remarkable work -- you and children will not be disappointed!

This is a beautiful and moving story that both adults and children will adore. I love the illustrations and how Bergsma used the Celtic symbols and fantasy plot to weave a fascinating and engaging tale. Since I am a fan of fantasy books and anything that inspire the imagination, this story is truly one of my favorite picture books! Besides, it has a wonderful message about working together and finding peace with one's enemy that anyone can relate to.

JODY BERGSMA CAN TELL A STORY AND DRAW IT TO BOOT. I'M THINKING OF BEING A FREELANCE WRITER MYSELF. JODY CAN DRAW PEOPLE WAY BETTER THAN ME. (I CAN'T EVEN DRAW STICK PEOPLE). AND SHE MAKES BABY SARAS LOOK SOOOOOO CUUUUUUUTE! I WISH I CAN DRAW LIKE HER, BUT MY ONLY TALENT IS LANDSCAPE. I'M USED TO READING NOVELS SO I FOUND THE STORY A LITTLE BIT (AND I DO REALY MEAN A LITTEL BIT) EMPTY OF OTHER CHARACTERS. BUT IN A CHILDREN'S STORY ONLY THE MAIN CHARACTERS HAVE CHARACTER.

Fairy tale of a peaceful prince and a wayward dragon which he tames. Lushly illustrated. The reviewer's 5 year-old grandson likes it, and feels it is a comfortable length, though by adult observation it appears overly long.

As the young Queen of Lugin, Briana, is giving birth to her very first child, away in the not-so-distant forest, a strange hatchling is born to a beautiful green dragon. The Queen's son, now known as Prince Langilor, is not what was expected, for he is shy, and gentle. While the young dragon, Saras, is also what was not expected, for he becomes a pompous bully, who attacks the dragon clan after learning how to breathe fire and fly. When he turns twelve, Prince Langilor is told by the Royal Advisors that he must protect the kingdom from Saras, in order to prove his worth as the future King. He doubts himself, but soon realizes that he may be able to defeat Saras, when he meets with a beautiful white swan who tells him to conquer the dragon and claim his throne.

I have been a HUGE fan of Jody Bergsma's illustrations for quite some time now, but with DRAGON, she proves that she is an extremely skilled and talented author as well. Her wonderful prose is enchanting, while the illustrations are utterly breathtaking. This is a book that can't be missed.

Erika Sorocco
Book Review Columnist for The Community Bugle Newspaper

Amazing! The story is wonderful for children, teaching them how to make friends of enemies, but everyone will love the artwork. Brilliantly illustrated, the pages appear to have been artfully crafted by watercolors, an amazing feat! For anyone who enjoys Graeme Base's books or the illustrations of K.Y. Craft, this is a must-have.