Dragon Song

"Fire lizards were perched around the walls, clinging to rock spur and ledge.
Every eye glinted at the mound of eggs in the sandy center of the cave. the
thrumming came from the throats of all the little fire lizards, and they
were far too intent on what was happening to the eggs to give any heed to
her abrupt appearance.

Just as Menolly realized she was witnessing a Hatching, the first egg began
to rock and cracks appeared in its shell."

Dragon Song by Anne McCaffry

This book is from the Harper Hall Trilogy by Anne McCaffrey and is one of just many books she has written on the topic of dragons. Her books have more of a science fiction feel to them than fantasy, thought this one only hints of science fiction.

Facts:Books in the trilogy are:Dragon Song, Dragon Singer, Dragon Drums; reading levels are listed at age 9-12-not what I would list as an appropriate age due to sexual content in some of her books-this one is suitable; 176 pages;$3.99 new at Amazon (see above link) and .99 used!!!; secular market.

Overview: A young girl living in a fishing community is scorned and picked on by her parents. She is not permitted to exercise her incredible music talent. She runs away, and lives with fire lizards (mini dragons).

Initial Eye Catcher: Dragons...again!

I Liked:The setting on the planet of Pern; great landscape with rocky caves and wierd beasts; also liked the interaction between characters; great story line; how this girl is able to follow her dreams after much discouragement and persecution. I've read this 3-4 times.

I Didn't like: some of her phrasing was foreign to me(ie:"Yanus grumbled bitterly against the inevitable...[his wife speaking]'That's what everyone has told you, haven't they? so why make so much of a necessity?'" I would have written 'so much of a fuss' instead.

Conclusion:Great read with many interesting twist and a great imagination. Parents, please sensor for your kids first and be aware that not all of her books are appropriate due to sexual content.

For Your Interest: The Worlds of Anne McCaffrey website; Pern Museum and Archives; Pern fan Club Site

Rating: * * * * *