Book Review || Kenny & the Dragon

Kenny & the Dragon
Tony DiTerlizzi (illustrated by author)


Published: 22 September 2008

Simon & Schuster, hardcover, 160p.
ISBN: 9781416939771

What do you do when your new best buddy has been designated a scourge by the community and marked for imminent extermination?

Just ask Kenny Rabbit.

When the simple folks in the sleepy little village of Roundbrook catch wind that there's a dragon running loose in the countryside, they get the wrong idea and the stage is set for a fight to the death. So it's up to Kenny to give his neighbors front-row seats to one of the best-known battles in history - the legendary showdown between St. George and the dragon - without losing a friend in the fray.

Kenneth is a little rabbit with a very big problem. His two best friends are heading for a battle of legendary proportions - with each other! In one corner there's Grahame, a well-read and cultured dragon, with sophisticated tastes and no stomach for battle. In the other, there's George, a retired knight and dragon slayer who would be content to spend the rest of his days in his bookshop with a pipe and a good book. But when the townsfolk catch wind there's a dragon running loose in the countryside, and call George out of retirement, the stage is set. And it's up to Kenny to avert disaster. A fun-filled, thoroughly theatrical spin on a classic tale of subterfuge and showmanship. 

Found this book in a thrift shop for $1 and couldn't resist.  I love all things dragons, and when it is combined with a gorgeous cover and sketch illustrations... well, I had to buy it.

The story follows the shy and introverted, Kenny, who is a bookworm at heart.  He doesn't really have friends at school, and when his father comes rushing home to inform the family that a mean and vile dragon has moved into the neighbourhood what does Kenny do?  He consults a book. 

It is this kind of atypical behaviour in our main character that I found endearing.  As a bookworm myself, I find it is a trait not often portrayed in a positive light.  DiTerlizzi however, manages to make this part of the charm of the book. 

Like most good children's books there is a moral, or two, that shine through and the main thoughts I took away from Kenny & the Dragon were

a) never believe everything you hear/read
b) never judge a book by it's cover

I won't go into where, or how, these morals are implied as that just might spoil the book for you.  But there is a real undertone in this book that shines through and a good example to use in a discussion with children about how not to judge people, and why you shouldn't believe everything just because it is printed in a book.

As with most fantasy books there is some action - a dragon-slayer is called upon to rid the town of the vile dragon! - but rest assured, it is not scary, and I would have no hesitation in recommending it to parents of young kids. 

On to the artwork.  The author has generously dotted sketches throughout the book.  A small character study here, a full page there.  They are so adorable.  Kenny, this scrawny little rabbit is so sweetly drawn that you just want to pat him (I used to have a pet rabbit and it brought back all the feels).  Grahame is not your typical dragon and the dragon-slayer riding in in all his glory was just delightful.

This is my first book by Diterlizzi, and I found it to be smashing.  Will definitely be checking out The Spiderwick Chronicles.

My rating:

Hope you enjoyed this review.  I would love any recommendations for similar books so please leave any suggestions in the comment area below.

Until next time,

 

Last Hunter & Medieval Tournament

Ok, take two...

Stupid computer just ate the first draft of this post, so I've had to start again... grrrr. Anyway, as I was saying, Amazon delivered my latest 3 parcels during the week, and although I was thrilled beyond all measure, I was most excited about receiving the long awaited "The Iron Hunt" by Marjorie M Liu.

Unlike some, I had no problems following the back story, and although it is a little complex, it is a great premise. Image being the Last Hunter on earth, and the Veil holding the darkness back is weakening... oh yeah, bring it on!

Now although I longed to rip into this book as soon as I put my hands on it, I realised that I had better wait a while, like say until after I'd returned from the Medieval Tournament! So yesterday morning, I packed up my stuff and got my butt out to the field where they were holding the 19th Abbey Medieval Tournament. I waited there for more than an hour before I got in the gate. I was the only one in my line (VIP's, Performers/Media) while the line for tickets was out the gate! I had a great day, the weather was great, sunny and not too windy, although it was cold there at 7.30am - 6.5 degrees celcius!

Well, I spent a few hours there, spent too much money and walked my feet off. Next year the Tournament should be held in it's new permanent venue and my only hope is that it has plenty of seating!

So I got my sorry butt home yesterday, and hopped into my comfies and picked up the much anticipated book and started to read. I didn't stop until I was called for dinner, and by then I was back to flicking through the book to re-read my favourite parts (yes, I speed read).

Maxine is quite a lady, very deep and needy at times, but devoted to her 'family'. I loved the 'boys', and the mysterious Oturu - I kinda get the feeling she's going to end up with him in the future? Anyway, the book is a great read. I found the characters fun to follow, and fell in love with the Boys. If you're looking for a good urban fantasy then this is one to add to the list. Some might have problems keeping up with all the backstory and stuff, but once you get that clear, it makes reading it more enjoyable. Alot like her "Dirk & Steel" series in tone. That whole 'big bad is coming' vibe. 3½ stars from me.

I'll try to put some of my Medieval Tournament pics & video's on next time.