Review: Dragon's Green by Scarlett Thomas

DRAGON'S GREEN

Worldquake Sequence, Book 1

by Scarlett Thomas

Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers

Middle Grade Fantasy

ages 8+

384 pages

COMING. . .
MAY 30th, 2017!!!

The Neverending Story meets Jonathan Stroud’s Bartimaeus trilogy in this first magical adventure in a new series from acclaimed novelist Scarlett Thomas.

Effie Truelove believes in magic, as does her grandfather Griffin (although he refuses to do any magic, let alone teach Effie how to use it). After a mysterious incident leaves Griffin close to death, Effie is given an unusual silver ring and told she must look after her grandfather’s library of rare and powerful books. But then the books fall into the hands of shady scholar Leonard Levar, and Effie is propelled into the most dangerous adventure of her life.

Now, Effie and her friends—nerdy Maximilian, rugby-mad Wolf, helpful Lexy, and eccentric Raven—must discover their true powers if they are to get the books back. And Effie alone will have to travel to the Otherworld, where she will uncover the true meaning of the strange old book called Dragon’s Green…

Acclaimed novelist Scarlett Thomas invites you into the wondrous realm of the Worldquake Sequence, where magic most decidedly exists, a growing evil lurks, and a group of children is destined to save the world.

 MY TIDBITS

With the whimsical magic of Harry Potter and an other-feel of The Neverending Story, this is the beginning of an amazing, unforgettable journey.

The world has changed since the great Worldquake, one that has split the real world from the magical one. Not that most people in the real world will admit that a magical one even exists and many simply don't know it. Effie's grandfather seems to be magical, but she can't be sure since her father has forbidden him from ever speaking about or teaching her magic. When Effie's grandfather dies and leaves her several boons as well as an impressive library, her magical journey begins. Her first quest is to save her newly inherited and mysteriously magical library from evil hands.

This was one of the best middle grade fantasy novels I've read in a while. The world is so rich and alluring that it's impossible not dream that it might really be true. Packed full of wondrous, childlike fantasy, everything from princesses to dragons to hot buns and portals makes an appearance. The feeling of awe seeps in around every bend. Still, there's enough touch of the familiar to keep it all in place. The starting world is much like our own, only that the internet has disappeared, leaving people to run around with pagers.

Adventure is key as Effie heads out to discover not only a magical world she knows nothing about, but also the secret about her grandfather. The steady paced action holds many unexpected twists and is sprinkled with excitingly dangerous situations which take more than luck and muscle to work through. Thanks to Effie's fairly quick wit, a group of new found friends, and unexpected extended family along the way, the complex world unfolds bit by bit. Told in third person, the narration offers quirky little tidbits here and there, and sprinkles in the right amount of humor when needed.

A careful balance is held between the adventure and the unfolding information concerning the complex world. This curbs the action a bit, allowing the characters to develop and the rules of the magical world to start to lay a solid foundation.  The layers are deep, and many questions still need to be answered. But this is the great beginning to what promises to be an unforgettable magical journey in the rest of the series.


And here she is. . .

Scarlett Thomas was born in London. She is the author of nine books for adults, including The Seed Collectors, PopCo, The End of Mr. Y, which was longlisted for the Orange Broadband Prize for Fiction 2007, and Our Tragic Universe. Dragon's Green is her first novel for young readers. She teaches creative writing at the University of Kent.

You can find more about her at http://www.scarlettthomas.co.uk

Dragons are Reals by Valarie Budayr with Giveaway

Dragons are Real 

by Valarie Budayr

Illustrated by Michael Welply

Audrey Press

Children's Picture Book 

32 pages

What if I told you that all of the fairy tales, myths and legends that have been told about dragons over the years are WRONG? What if I told you that Dragons are indeed REAL and that they are different than you've ever imagined? Did you know that Dragons are the master of disguises? Did you know that they love sugar and sweets (at unacceptable levels) and will do anything for treats? Award winning author Valarie Budayr brings us this fairly true story based on her childhood friendship with a REAL live Dragon.

EXCERPT

About the Author: Valarie Budayr

Award Winning and Best-selling author, Valarie Budayr inspires children and adults alike to experience their books through play, discovery, and adventure via engaging extension activities on her popular website, www.jumpintoabook.com.

Valarie is co-founder of Multi-cultural Children's Book Day , #ReadYourWorld, a celebration of diverse and cultural kid-lit shared with over 98 million people on January 27th. Her foundation puts hundreds of books into the hands of children in rural and intercity areas. www.multiculturalchildrensbookday.com
Valarie's other best-selling and award winning titles are: The Fox Diaries: The Year the Foxes Came to our Garden, The Ultimate Guide to Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, and A Year in the Secret Garden.

Twitter | Facebook (Audrey Press) | Facebook (Jump Into A Book) | Google+

 Pinterest | Goodreads | Website

About the Illustrator: Michael Welply

Michael Welply was born in London in 1948. The family moved to Winnipeg, Canada, in 1950. He studied art in Winnipeg and then in Paris, but his idea of living from the sales of his paintings is somewhat compromised by the lack of buyers. He started his career as an illustrator in 1977 in London. In 1981 he returned to live in France with his American wife and their two children. Since then he has worked for publishers in both Europe and North America. To date he has illustrated over 80 books and more than 100 covers, in a wide range of subjects extending from detailed non-fiction to juvenile and adult fiction in the realms of fantasy, mythology, science fiction and fairy tales.

Website

Blog Tour Giveaway

Prize: One winner will receive a $100 Amazon gift card or $100 PayPal cash prize, winner's choice 
Giveaway ends: May 30, 11:59 pm, 2016 
Open to: Internationally 
How to enter: Please enter using the Rafflecopter widget below.
Terms and Conditions: NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW. A winner will be randomly drawnthrough the Rafflecopter widget and will be contacted by email within 48 hours after the giveaway ends. The winner will then have 72 hours to respond. If the winner does not respond within 72 hours, a new draw will take place for a new winner. Odds of winning will vary depending on the number of eligible entries received. This contest is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with Facebook. This giveaway is sponsored by the author, Valarie Budayr and is hosted and managed by Stacie from BeachBoundBooks. If you have any additional questions feel free to send an email to stacie@BeachBoundBooks.com.

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Review: Acne, Asthma, and Other Signs You Might be Half Dragon by Rena Rocford

ACNE, ASTHMA, AND OTHER SIGNS YOU MIGHT BE HALF DRAGON

by Rena Rocford

Contemporary Fantasy

Curiosity Quills Press

Cover Artist: Amy Chitulescu

Find Online: Amazon US | Goodreads

Allyson fights acne, not trolls. As an inhaler-carrying member of the asthma society, she just wants to meet the father who turned her mother into a paranoid, move-across-the-nation freak. Now she’s trying to fit in at yet another school, but for the first time in her life, she has a best friend, Beth. When Allyson accidentally spits fire at kidnappers in the mall, she realizes why her father isn’t in the picture: she’s half dragon. Her acne? Emerging scales. Her asthma? The side effects of her dragon's fire breath. Instead of freaking out, unflappable Beth reveals her own troll heritage and explains how things work with the supernatural creatures hiding within the modern world of smartphones and skyscrapers.

When trolls kidnap a unicorn, Beth gets blamed. Allyson is determined to prove Beth’s innocence and keep her friend off the unicorn chopping block. When they start looking for the kidnappers, they get a call from the last person they expect: Allyson’s father. He tries to warn them off, but he's been put under a spell by the kidnappers to keep the victims from escaping. Nothing short of death can stop him. Now Allyson must choose between killing the father she’s always dreamed of, or letting her best friend die for a crime she didn’t commit.

MY TIDBITS

Although I loved the cover on this one, after I read the blurb, I wasn't sure I'd like it or not. . .but since I already had it, I figured I might as well give it a go. And I'm so glad I did!

This is a modern day fantasy, grounded in the every day world as we know it. Well, except that humans aren't alone. Fantastical creatures--unicorns, dragons, trolls, and so many others--live among us but look so human, no one except for their kind can tell the difference. Allyson is just about to turn fifteen and has never given a second thought to fairy tales or anything of their kind, but when she spits fire and grows scales, her eyes are opened.

This is such a fun tale. Within the first pages, a normal, teenage shopping mall excursion turns into an attempted kidnapping with dragons and trolls. Not much time is spent on getting to know Allyson first, but it's not necessary. Her character is sympathetic from beginning on, and her shock about life unfolding around her is a delight to experience right along with her.

The plot is stuffed full of action, and poor Allyson not only struggles with her new-found dragonness, but fights off all sorts of creatures who are out to get her. It was easy to get caught up into the story, but hard to put it down. Especially since every time it appeared she and her best friend were getting somewhere, luck would seem to blow up in their faces. But then, the two are a bit reckless and although their intentions are always good, their plans aren't always as solid as they could be. It makes their decisions very believable...well, in so far as a teenage dragon and troll going up again other fantastic creatures in disguise can be considered believable. But there's tons of chases, lots of precarious situations and just the right amount of snippy humor thrown in.

Summed up, this is a thrilling and fun ride into a world which is very familiar, but full of fantasy. Anyone into a little more light-hearted but still adventure filled urban fantasy is sure to love this.




And here she is. . .

RENA ROCFORD!!!

Like most mad scientists, Rena Rocford’s early works were largely met with scorn and mockery, but she bided her time. After all, what did her fellow kindergarteners know about literature? From that day forward, Rena kept her writing on the mythical back burner as she pursued more logical goals. Today, crayons. Tomorrow, the world. She moved on to essays and egg drops, followed by experiments in shady laboratories. She tried her hand at everything, learning from anyone who would teach her. She even moonlighted as a horseback riding instructor.

Admittedly, living as a muggle brought Rena some levels of success such as completing her master’s degree, but always the stories returned, calling her to the keyboard in the dark of night. Now, having built armies from words, Rena has set her sights on world domination, one book at a time.

From her secret base in the wine country, Rena has enlisted the help of her cats, her loyal dogs, and her family―who can be relied upon to hide the launch codes at a moment’s notice. You can find Rena at her blog, follow her on Twitter, or find her on Facebook.

Find Rena Rocford Online:

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads

Curiosity Quills Press (CQ) is a small hybrid publishing company specializing in genre fiction of the highest quality. With 150+ titles in our catalog already and approximately 6 new books coming out each month, there’s never a dull moment at CQ. We work with major retailers such as Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Audible to ensure that you, the reader, can find whatever you are looking for at your convenience.

Founded in 2011 by Eugene Teplitsky and Lisa Gus, CQ was initially a resource portal for writing and publishing, created in an effort to help writers, like themselves, survive the publishing industry. After rapid success, CQ morphed into publishing press that over time has solidified its share in the market. Now we spend our days searching for the next great escape!

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads

Review: Dragon's Future by Kandi J. Wyatt

DRAGON'S FUTURE

Dragon Courage Series, Book 1

by Kandi J. Wyatt

Updrift

Middle Grade Fantasy

260 pages

Every child of Woolpren dreams of becoming one, but only a few are chosen. Now, ten-year-old twin brother and sister, Ruskya and Duskya, have been selected to join an elite group of riders: dragon riders. Full of awe and excitement, the twins leave their mother, and their home, to train for their new lives.

Fifteen years later, dragons are becoming extinct and riders are rare. One day, Ruskya is at the general store in town when a man announces that he is recruiting new dragon riders. Ruskya goes undercover, and discovers that there is another colony of riders with their own agenda—a quest to find a mysterious plant that could restore the dragon population, or destroy it. When a battle erupts between the two colonies, it’s up to Ruskya and his friends to fight for their dragons’ future, and their lives.

Follow Ruskya’s quest as he finds courage and friendship in this exciting middle grade fantasy series by new author Kandi J Wyatt.

TIDBITS

This is definitely a great read for dragon lovers, and honestly, the first one I've read in quite awhile. 

The story starts with a dragon choosing ceremony, immediately setting the tone. I loved the feel of 'times past' these scenes held despite the fantasy world (and the dragons). The town and people seem very natural making it easy to sink into the scenes.

Ruskya and his sister are likable from the very first page. The first moments, they come across as shy and hesitant, but this quickly changes as they meet their dragons and begin their new lives. It's interesting to watch them grow as they're thrown from one adventure into the next, and forced to figure out how to deal with the troubles rising around them. There's a great bond between the siblings, and this extends on to the dragons and their friends as they try to save the future of the dragons.

The characters, including the dragons, enjoy quite a bit of depth. Instead of dropping the individual histories right away, the author allows bits of each character's past and personality to come to the surface as the plot develops. This not only gave me the feeling that I was getting to know the characters more and more throughout the book, but also avoided any boring information dumps. I especially appreciated that the dragons had as much personality as their riders. The dragons are seen as companions and drawn into the plot as much as the riders themselves.

There are many layers in this book, making sure that the momentum flows all the way to the last page. The battles are vivid and tense, the evil plans are not easy to decipher and it's not always clear that everything will turn out as it should. In other words, once the reader is hooked, they stay that way to the end. 

I, personally, did have some trouble getting into the story during those first chapters despite the interesting characters. The formal exchanges made the dialogue a bit rough in the beginning (although I understand why it was written this way), and the names of the dragons were too similar, making it difficult to keep them apart. But once I got past this, I was caught up in the pages. 

Due to the writing style and length, I would recommend this more to the upper end of the middle grade audience, ages 10+ or even younger YA. But I can recommend this to anyone (even adults) who love dragons, fantasy and adventure. 

The Buzz!

"Have you ever ridden a dragon? You're about to, so hold on tight! Dragon's Future is quite the ride!"

-Ridley Pearson, New York Times bestselling author of Peter and the Starcatchers

And here she is. . .

KANDI J. WYATT!!!

Kandi J Wyatt is a wife, mother of five, teacher, artist, and author. In her free time, she enjoys writing fantasy stories and Christmas programs, and drawing with graphite and colored pencils. Portraits are her specialty. Kandi also enjoys photography, thanks to her photographer husband who has let her join his journey as both his model and apprentice, and she occasionally serves as his assistant when he needs a “light stand with feet.” To learn more, visit:

Blog:  https://kandijwyatt.wordpress.com/

Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/pages/Kandi-Wyatt-author/647179792053374

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/kandijwyatt

Pinterest:  https://www.pinterest.com/kandiwyatt3/

Instagram:  https://instagram.com/kandijwyatt/

Google +: https://plus.google.com/u/0/+KandiWyatt

Amazon Author Page: http://www.amazon.com/Kandi-J.-Wyatt/e/B00ZTC4T10/ref=ntt_dp_epwbk_0

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/13817774.Kandi_J_Wyatt

Review: Magelica's Voyage by Louise Courey Nadeau

Magelica's Voyage, Book 1

 MAGELICA'S VOYAGE

 by Louise Courey Nadeau 

Magelica Inc.

48 pages

For ages 5 to 10 

 Who ever heard of a girl being hatched from an egg the colour of sapphires? Magelica doesn't know where she came from or who she really is. But when she's transported to the Isle of Dreams in a flying bathtub, she launches into an adventure of discovery, and learns that wonderful things can happen when she uses her imagination, believes, opens her heart and trusts in love. Come fly with her and discover for yourself the power of imagination, gratitude, believing in yourself, and love! In this special first voyage, fantasy, adventure, magical illustrations, empowering messages, and a wonderful cast of enchanting characters come together as Magelica takes young girls and the special people in their lives on a fun, inspiring voyage about making your life magical.

* Available in English / French / Spanish *

Amazon | Goodreads

MY TIDBITS

When my youngest caught sight of this book, she immediately started begging for me to read it to her. So big plus on the covers because they grabbed her attention--exactly what a cover should do.

Magelica was all my daughter hoped her to be--sweet, kind and a little magical. The story begins with Magelica wondering who she really is and contemplating with the cutest little dragon on her side. Especially the idea that she came from an egg was fascinating and definitely had my daughter as curious of Magelica's origins as Magelica was.

It doesn't take long for Magelica's journey to begin, and the idea of using a bathtub to fly off in is fantastic. Magelica's travels and adventures happen with such fantastical ease that it's simply a joy to be on her side. But the other characters make it as fun as she does. A talking puff-ball and her best friend, a small dragon, are the perfect companions and had my daughter smiling the whole way through.

The chapters are kept pretty short, giving Mom's (and other readers) a chance to take a breath. . .but not a long one. At times, I found the writing a bit jumpy, but this didn't bother my daughter in the least. She had no trouble understanding what was going on and wasn't pleased when I took a break half-way through (it was a school night and past her bedtime). 

I especially enjoyed the illustrations and found they fit Magelica and the mood perfectly. 

Summed up, this is a wonderful book for early readers, especially girls who love fairies, magic and dream of far away, fantastical lands they might someday fly to on their own.

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The Rescue, (Magelica's Voyage, Book 2)

THE RESCUE

 (Magelica's Voyage, Book 2) 

by Louise Courey Nadeau

Magelica Inc.

 48 pages

For ages 5 to 10

When Magelica dreams of the prince lost on a deserted island, she realizes that it could lead to his rescue. She returns to the Isle of Dreams to tell Queen Raya what she knows.Can they save Prince Will before it's too late? Will the power of laughter and love be enough?

* Available in English / French / Spanish *

Amazon | Goodreads

MY TIDBITS

This begins there where the first book ended, and although one could possibly read this as a stand-alone, I wouldn't recommend it. The adventures from book 1 will make it easier for readers to understand Magelica and the situation she finds herself in this adventure.

Honestly, I enjoyed this book more than the first. While the first had to jump between several things to give the reader a good understanding of the characters and magical world around them, THE RESCUE takes off one, pure adventure. 

Magelica has become braver and more self-assured than when we first met her. Although she still is in search of her identity, she's learned to be the person she is and has accepted her bond to the magical realm. But then, the magical realm is a wonderful place, full of friendship and support. This is a book filled with positive feelings. Even though Magelica now has the mission to find the prince, it's an adventure packed full of goodness. Music, laughter and hope beam through on every page, making this a great read for kids, especially before they head off into a world of dreams. 

I can only recommend this for first readers and believe they will enjoy getting sucked up into Magelica's world. The writing is at a perfect level, the adventure fast-paced enough to keep readers interest, and the messages as golden as can be. A two thumbs up from me!

   

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The Buzz About the Books

"Magelica's Voyage is an inspiring, magical tale of a world that I did not want to leave. The author's imagination takes off with vivid magical characters transformed into beautiful illustrations that your child will love... When you open this book you'll instantly discover that magic is indeed in the air." ~ 5 Star Review, StevieV, Amazon

"This is a wonderful, enchanting book! The story is so imaginative and the illustrations are beautiful! It is delightful to join Magelica on her adventure to the Isle of Dreams, and it is great to see such a positive, confident heroine." ~ 5 Star Review, Laurie J., Amazon

"Magelica is easy to love; a child who accepts herself as she is but who questions the very world around her, is someone many children will be able to relate to. Give this wonderful story a try- you won't be sorry you did." ~ 5 Star Review, Shelley V., Amazon

"Magelica's Voyage by Louise Courey Nadeau is a beautifully written enchanting tale filled with alluring adventure. The story is magnificently illustrated, from the winsome depiction of Magelica to the creative Isle of Dreams, the authors gifted imagination is prevalent on every page... I highly recommend picking up a copy.." ~ 5 Star Review, Stacie T., Amazon

"I recommend it to every kid between the age of 3 until 9 whether it is a girl or boy. The energy when reading it is indescribable. Both [books] are well made and I recommend it to every parent that cares about how their children should be raised!" ~ 5 Star Review, Hassan, Amazon

"The Rescue is a beautifully illustrated and beautifully written children’s story with an important message about being happy and staying positive, even in very difficult circumstances. Louise Courey Nadeau presents this gentle lesson in a light-hearted and brilliantly illustrated manner that draws in readers young and old." ~ Bil Howard, Reader's Favorite, 5 Star Review

"Magelica’s Voyage: The Rescue by Louise Courey Nadeau is a beautiful story that will teach kids valuable lessons pertaining to staying true to their heart." ~ 5 Star Review, Jeff, Amazon

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And here she is. . .

Louise Courey Nadeau!!!

Passionate about empowering and inspiring children around the world, Louise Courey Nadeau, born and raised in Montreal, Canada, and mother of two girls and two boys created her first fairy tale Magelica's Voyage, with the second book in the series, The Rescue, launched June 2015.

"Through life's trials and tribulations, I always believed I could. With the Magelica book series my goal is to take young girls and their parents and teachers on empowering adventures and to inspire and encourage them to believe that they are amazing just the way they are, and to discover the power of love, positivity, and believing in themselves. "Magelica's Voyage is inspired by my life, my family, and the special people and places I love", says Courey Nadeau.

 "All of the characters in the story, including Magelica are reflections of the person I am- the wacky part, the funny part, the philosopher, the teacher, the caretaker, the chosen mom, the giver, and of course the dreamer. What would Magelica do, I often ask, and I get the answer. When you fly with Magelica, the possibilities are endless and there is magic allaround." To read her blogs and learn more about Louise Courey Nadeau please visit Magelica's Voyage website at Magelica.com. You can also follow Magelica on FB, Twitter, Instagram, and Pinterest.

Book Website | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest

Blood and Scales Anthology

Blood and Scales: An Anthology

By- E.C. Hibbs, Jacinta Maree, Victoria Escobar, Susan Burdorf, Luke McCallin, C.L. Matthews, Ruthi Kight, J.K. Radalyac, Bobbie Palmer and Heather Clawson

Genre- Mature YA/NA Fantasy

Dragons are a race of mythical creatures shrouded in magic and mystery. Whether good or evil, countless stories have been written detailing their majesty. For centuries, mankind has searched for the facts regarding the true nature of these fantastic beasts.

Today, another quest for knowledge has struck our attention; a cure for diabetes. In this dragon themed anthology, ten authors have come together to create this collection of short stories to benefit the American Diabetes Association.

     

Review: Dragons of the Dark Rift by Kevin Gerard

Diego's Dragon, Book 2: Dragons of the Dark Rift

 by Kevin Gerard 

Crying Cougar Press

 214 pages

For ages 10+

 A Prophecy, an Ancient Calendar, and a Battle for Earth’s Survival The turning of the 26,000 year cycle is approaching. The fifth sun promises a time of peace for all creatures. Magnifico, Estrella, and the Sol Dragones eagerly await the new age. Vipero hopes to alter the ancientprophecy. He orders the Dragons of the Dark Rift to find and eliminate the Sol Dragones. If they succeed, nothing will stop him from destroying Diego’s world and claiming ownership of Sol, a star with unlimited spiritual power. Diego and Racquel travel with their dragons to the Dark Rift, the entrance to the magical realm known as the Xibalba. Together with the Sol Dragones, they battle Vipero’s immense army in a fight to save or shift the Mayan prediction. The fate of earth depends on victory or defeat, and Diego is the key. His choice – to betray Magnifico or stay true to the Sol Dragones – will determine the outcome of the conflict.  

Amazon * Barnes & Noble * Smashwords * Goodreads

MY TIDBITS

This is a gripping, fast-paced story, which slides in perfectly behind the first book in the series. The main focus here is dragons, powerful and majestic ones. The descriptions are lovely, allowing the reader to experience these wondrous beasts as if they were solid reality. The dragons are an intricate part of Earth's destiny, and in this book, have good vs. evil battling in the realm of the stars. 

Diego is a twelve-year-old, Hispanic boy, who generally doesn't cause trouble, but being a Guide, finds himself wrapped up in exciting adventures. However, this isn't only a story about him as much it is about the battle around him. The scenes shift from him, to Magnifico, to the other dragons, as a story enfolds, which holds enough tension and intrigue.

I love the dash of Spanish thrown into this book, and enjoy the well described scenes. The friendships and loyalties between characters are inspiring, and make it easy to cheer the main characters on. And there's a lot to cheer for. The danger and action hits from one page to the next, refusing to let go.

Others Buzz About the Series

"Diego’s Dragon: Spirits of the Sun is a gripping, intrigue-filled adventure featuring a young Hispanic boy as the main protagonist, a beautiful statue that transforms into a real dragon, and a cast of secondary characters who all play a role in helping Diego fulfill his destiny as the Guide who delivers his ancestors into the spirit world. Tweens and teens will enjoy this magical and mystical journey..." ~ Mother Daughter Book Reviews

"Kevin, you are an amazing writer. You have inspired me to make a book of my own. It is about a kid who can jump through space and time just by jumping. The next few paragraphs are what I have so far from the book. Please read them and give me feedback." ~ Your #1 fan - Ryan

"Another fun little book by Kevin Gerard in the Diego's Dragon series... My daughter (who is in the 4th grade, but reads at the middle school level) read this book right after she read the first in this series 'Diego's Dragon: Spirits of the Sun. She can't wait for the next one to come out." ~ Tjasinto, Amazon, 5 Stars

"I love your fantasy fiction books so much!" ~ Tanner - Palm Desert Charter School

 

And here he is. . .

KEVIN GERARD!!!

Kevin Gerard lives in San Diego, California, with two feline friends, Jesse the WonderCat and Little Man. When not writing or teaching statistics at Cal State San Marcos, he enjoys walking the grounds at the San Diego Zoo, hitting the waves at Cardiff State Beach, and hanging with his brother, nieces and nephews at the local Pizza Port. He also enjoys playing Halo on the internet; look for him in the rocket games as one of the characters from Diego’s Dragon or Conor and the Crossworlds.  

Book Website | Author Blog | Twitter

Facebook | Goodreads

 

Dewi and the Seeds of Doom by Maggie Lyons

DEWI AND THE

SEEDS OF DOOM

by Maggie Lyons

MuseItUp Publishing

Middle Grade Fantasy

ages 6+

70 pages

When Dewi is clobbered by a falling rat, the nosy Welsh dragon snoops his way into a challenging predicament. Helped by a toad with a passion for chemical wart cures, Dewi discovers that a megalomaniac baron is secretly breeding mutant corn at an unfriendly castle. To thwart the genetically modified-corn baron’s sickening plan, he must use moxie and firepower in a series of catastrophe-skirting capers.

MY TIDBITS

Did you know rats can simply fall out of the sky? Neither does the sweet dragon Dewi until one plops on him. As a dragon, you'd think that meant dinner time for Dewi...but not this loving Dragon. He's off to solve a mystery and find out what is going on. Of course, he finds more than he ever dreamed.

Dewi is a wonderful dragon who will really reach out to kids 6+. Not only is he kind and sweet and a dragon (yes, dragons are simply cool creatures), but he sometimes feels that he's underestimated and is capable of more than the 'adult' world will give him credit for. Kids will love it when he goes on this mystery, knowing that if his dragon father or others really knew what he was up to, they'd put an end to it quick. This dragon trusts himself and encourages kids to believe in themselves and their abilities.

The writing is perfect for first readers as is the length. The settings are whimsical and place kids in a magical world. There's danger without going over-board, action without being scary and evil characters which won't leave nightmares.

Summed up, I can highly recommend this adventurous tale (and adorable dragon) to readers who love adventure and a lot of fun.

Amazon (Print) | Amazon (Kindle) | Barnes and Noble | Goodreads