Dragon Rider
by Cornelia Funke, published 2004
“The Rim of Heaven.” Slatebeard closed his eyelids. “Its mountains are so tall that they touch the sky. Moonstone caves lie hidden among its slopes, and the floor of the valley is covered with blue flowers.”
Some stories should never end, and when they do, then I just pick up the book and start again from the beginning. That’s what I plan to do with this children’s work, which outdoes itself with humor and creativity. It’s a stunning example of a modern author able to make old myths come alive, and breathe new life into them.
Imagine in one children’s book: brownies, dwarfs, dragons, sea serpents, a giant Roc, and even a homunculi. (If you don’t know that last one, you must read the book.) Every fantastic creature (like those who would have stepped out of the Book of Dragons), each with a very distinct personality and a role to play in this dragon adventure. Throw in the magic of the Himalayas and a Tibetan monastery, and adventure soars to another level.
I’m amazed it took me so long to discover Cornelia Funke’s works. After reading a really easy children’s book that she wrote, I dove into this hefty volume and couldn’t put it down. Very definitely a positive and uplifting children’s book, this book is great for any child who loves imagination. It’s too long (500 pages in paperback) to be a good read-aloud, but it is well within the grasp of a good reader, and the content is appropriate for kids as young as 8. A great heroic, five-star children’s book.
Other Books by Cornelia Funke
The Thief Lord
Emma and the Blue Genie
Igraine the Brave
