Paperback: 416 pages
Publisher: Living Ink Books (June 25, 2004)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0899571700
ISBN-13: 978-0899571706
Billy Bannister has always had problems, mainly his hot breath that has gotten him the nickname "Dragon breath" at school. But his breath is the least of his problems when Billy learns his father is a dragon, making him one too. Not to mention his principal is actually a slayer, determined to kill both Billy and his dad. Along the way, Billy learns that the new girl at school, Bonnie Silver, is actually a dragon too. They flee together on a plane only to have Bonnie kidnapped and the plane destroyed, with only Billy and his mom surviving. Billy heads out to prove his dad is alive and save Bonnie.
Billy is your average teenager, just concerned with fitting in and staying out of trouble. His reactions to the events around him are what make him realistic. He is doubtful of his abilities and even his own father. He has little to no relationship with God.
Bonnie has an amazingly pure heart, which is a miracle considering how she has had such a hard life as an orphan. My only complaint is that her perfection becomes a little jarring at times. She is the perfect christian girl we all want to be and in the scene where she prays and recites scripture like a poet made me wince. But other than that part, she seems real and it's hard not to feel for her.
Walter is the most likable character. He says the silliest things that make you laugh out loud. I think he made the book. :)
Mr. Hamilton, is Billy's history teacher who becomes something of a mentor to all three young heroes. He is slightly eccentric but lovable in his knowledge and bravery.
Mr. Whittier makes a convincing villain as he truly believes he is in the right, and must destroy all of the remaining dragons.
There really isn't any weak points in the first of this series. Later on, it's easier to criticize the characters. But in book one they are fresh and enjoyable.
Having Merlin as a prophet rather than a wizard is a unique twist and believable since the tales surrounding him and Camelot are shrouded in mystery.
I give it four stars, for a very original story full of detail. ^__^
To see more of Bryan Davis's many books, check out his homepage.
You can buy his book at Amazon.com
Next up, I'll review "Dragonquest" by Donita K. Paul
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