Written by Eoin Colfer, Illustrated by P.J. Lynch
A beautiful picture book that is just over 100 pages. This is targeted to ages 8 to 12 and would be a beautiful read aloud. The vocabulary is robust and the illustrations are breathtaking. While strong readers would certainly enjoy on their own, I think there are so many opportunities for discussion, this is one you’ll want to talk about with someone after you finish it.
Lir is the crown prince, but after his father dies, his stepmother and stepbrother conspire to steal his crown. Not content to banish him, they send him on a quest to save Cethlenn, certain he will be eaten by a dragon. When Lir arrives, he identifies three tasks and with those tasks he heals and frees the dragon, creating a friend and ally. Cethlenn is much more than she seems and will play a large part in rescuing all three of them.
There are so many opportunities for rich discussion. How did Lir identify tasks that benefitted the dragon? Why is it important to keep our minds and bodies unclouded from influences? What do you think Cethlenn’s background is? Where do her powers come from?
This is open for a sequel, and I hope there is one. I’d love to explore more of Cethlenn’s history.
Reviewed by Megan Buhler, Librarian, Calvin Smith Elementary
Review shared in October 2023
Rating: ★★★★★ (5 stars)
Interest Level: Grades 3-5
Three Tasks for a Dragon
Written by Eoin Colfer, Illustrated by P.J. Lynch
Candlewick Press
104 pages
Release Date: October 3, 2023
ISBN: 9781536229998
A review copy was provided by the publisher.
