'The best books, reviewed with insight and charm, but without compromise.'
- author Jackie French

Tuesday 24 August 2010

Review: Kumiko and the Dragon's Secret


Title: Kumiko and the Dragon’s Secret

Author: Briony Stewart

Illustrator: Briony Stewart

Publisher: University of Queensland Press, $14.95 RRP

Publication Date: August 2010

Format: Paperback

ISBN: 9780702237805

For ages: 7+

Type: Novel

About: Kumiko is, in one way, like any child: frustrated by her mother (who never seems to take her side) and her sister (who throws tantrums at the drop of a hat).

In another way, Kumiko is extra special. This is a little girl who is protected by a dragon.

When her sister is kidnapped by sorcerers, Kumiko must save her using her special power: bravery. But how will she manage this against the powers of the sorcerers?

And will Kumiko’s mother ever believe her stories about adventures with dragons?

Right from the first words, readers will notice that this is a book with a difference. The language is delightfully old-fashioned, like a beautiful vintage fairytale.

The story itself is faultless. It weaves its way through the adventures of Kumiko and her guardian dragon effortlessly, drawing readers in to the magic and wonder of this little girl’s world.

This is a beautiful tale that can be read as a stand-alone novel, but is best followed by the first in the series, Kumiko and the Dragon.

This book is available online

Author/illustrator website

Also in this series:
Kumiko and the Dragon