Customer Reviews

Dragonlore: From the Archives of the Grey School of Wizardry

5 star:		(6)
4 star:		(2)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(1)

 

 

8/9/06

Wow! I really enjoyed reading this book. It is packed full of information on dragons old and new. The dragons of the Far East and Europe are here. I didn't realize how many dragons called North America home, and I live there. I have to admit that I never thought or heard of dragons from Africa or Oceania, but guess what, they are here too. Some of the better known myths and legends are covered in the book, whetting one's appetite for more.
I particularly enjoyed Chapter 3 "Dragons in the Modern Realm". Dungeons and Dragons, along with its subsets, "Dragonlance" and "Forgotten Realms" are covered. But if you have children, I bet you never even thought of Yu-Gi-Oh!
or Pokemon as being keepers of dragonlore. But you would be wrong. Both are full of dragons. "Dragons in Film", reminded me of some old favorites like the "Neverending Story", with Falkor, the luck dragon. I personally feel that the "Dragons in Literature", can add this book to its ranks.
Anyone with an interest in dragons will enjoy this book. I can think of at least two DMs who will be receiving this book as a Christmas/Yule gift from me. Even my husband, who is not usually a reader, has expressed interest in this book. And that is something. Please keep more of these books coming. FrogsDancing.

It seems many of us are captivated by dragons. These majestic creatures seem larger than life in all of the lore associated with them. Leopard Dancer's book has taken this fascination and described the various "species" and types of dragons. From a general description of what a dragon is, to the various types (be them wurms, pythons, or drakes, just to name a couple of types), and dragons from various parts of the world, this book goes a long way in explaining all of them.

The book also has a section devoted to dragon myths of the world, dragons in film and books, even so-called "living dragons" of today. The author has done an excellent job in putting this book together. If you have an interest in dragons and wish to learn more, this book is a great place to start.

I just received the book today, and I've had a hard time putting it down. I have never seen a more complete discussion of dragons, from around the world, and through the ages. If you have any interest in the legends and lore of dragons, this book is for you.

I would absolutely recommend this book to anyone interested in dragons and their place in history. The first section of the book seems a little more like an appendix to me, but it is an excellent resource as it includes all different types of dragons from all over the world, giving details on each. This alone was quite an education. I had no idea there were so many individual types or that they covered all continents- even Africa, North America, and South America.

The second section gives a sampling of some of the legends that give us our modern idea of what a dragon is. I wish that these stories were a little more in depth, but I appreciate that the author has chosen to go for quantity instead.

The third section looks at dragonlore in the modern world, examining stories in modern fantasy. It also includes a handy list for further reading.

Finally, DeKirk writes about the zoological basis for dragons, both in prehistoric and modern times.

This is definitely a book that gives the reader a general picture and jumping off point for a more complex study of dragons. It also is a good advertisement for the Grey School of Wizardry, where DeKirk teaches more in-depth classes about dragons.

I had no clue Dragons were such a part of our current cultures! This will make a terrific Christmas gift for my kids! It is great for kids of ALL ages!

This book is well written and excellent to read. Filled with folklore from all over the world as well as tales and examples of various creatures. If dragons are your passion, then definately get this book.

This book was very imformative and an excellent read. I recommend it to anyone who is interested in dragonlore.Dragonlore: From the Archives of the Grey School of Wizardry

There are legends of dragons all around us - and they appear in fantasy novels and games as well as movies: any fan of dragons will be thus delighted with DRAGONLORE, which examines the details of every species of dragon, gathers myths under one cover, and considers the impact and presence of dragons in popular culture. Black and white illustrations pepper an excellent overview that is a pick for any dragon fan, and any collection strong in fantasy.

This book is written in an interesting way, but the editing and interior design ruin the overall effect. The images, which could be an integral part of the text, are not treated well, and the overall organization leaves much to be desired. There are better dragon books out there.