Land of Dragons

January 15, 2023
Cassie's new pet, Albert, was there for her when she needed him; now it's up to her to return the favor. In Secret of the Storm (2022), 12-year-old Cassie, grappling with the death of her father and her mother's overwhelming grief, discovered that Albert, the kitten she and best friend Joe found under unusual circumstances, is really a dragon. Trying to protect Albert from Sheldon Slack, who wants to exploit the healing powers of dragon blood, and FBI agents Fox and Dana, they sent Albert back to the dragon dimension--only to learn that he is in grave danger there, too. Now Cassie and Joe embark on a mission to rescue Albert, joined by Cassie's mother; local librarian Miss Asher; and one highly unexpected companion. A missing diary, enigmatic symbols, and a mysterious bookseller reveal clues to help them in their quest. Cassie's voice will be relatable to young readers, and as she steps into her powers--both literally and figuratively--she establishes herself as an unlikely hero. Friendship continues to be a driving force in the story, while grief is a less present theme than in the previous volume. While the anticipated adventure takes a while to gain momentum, the story packs some surprises and promises further twists in the next entry. Most characters read White; Joe has brown skin. A solid second installment in what promises to be a sweeping fantasy series. (Fantasy. 8-12)

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March 1, 2023
Grades 4-7 This sequel to McMullen's Secret of the Storm (2022) follows Cassie's further adventures with Albert (the dragon that transforms into her cat) and Joe, her best friend. Her mother and the town's librarian, now aware of Albert's secret identity, become very supportive, helping Cassie and Joe take the dragon on a search for those who can help him. Soon Albert returns to the Land of Dragons through a magical portal, along with Cassie and Joe. But when it becomes clear that the cat-dragon has unexpectedly left alone on an important mission, Joe and Cassie undertake a perilous quest through the dragon realm, hoping to find and, if necessary, rescue their friend from the evil dragon king who intends to execute him. Throughout the book, a subplot quietly unfolds in interspersed third-person chapters that focus on two FBI agents who are secretly attempting to find Albert. Telling the main story, Cassie's first-person narrative has good pacing, an eye for detail, and a certain wry humor. A lively adventure tale within the Secret of the Storm series.

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