The Affairs of Dragons

Mary C. Fairbanks
Zumaya (2005)
ISBN 1554102545
Reviewed by Deb Shunamon for Reader Views (5/06)

This book was a pleasant surprise. From the traditional fable style of “Gesundheit” (the story of Ah Chu and how he helped a hamlet get its water) to the more modern, feminist tale “Wanted: Damsel, Hopefully Distressed”, its twenty-four quirky tales treat the reader to some great storytelling about what can happen when humans and dragons meet. I would have loved to have read this book to my children when they were about 7 years old. The dragon topic would have been of interest to them, as would the twist in storylines, great conversations, and amusing characterizations. It certainly could be read to children even younger, but be ready to explain some eloquent vocabulary!

Although the dragons in this book still like their caves and castles, the author takes care to provide a unique setting for every tale so that each interaction with humans seems refreshing and new. Many of the tales have words of wisdom for the reader to ponder or a twist in the story that you can’t help chuckling over, and I often found myself reading out-loud even though I was all by myself. I also had a great deal of fun matching each dragon’s vivid personality to real-life people. The writing is really very good. However, I don’t think the book needs the accompanying computer graphics. Although I think a lot of effort was put into them, they resemble manipulated clip-art and are far too simple for the richness of the writing.

I liked this book. Whether read silently for the sheer pleasure of experiencing good storytelling, or orally to an audience that’s interested in having some fun, “The Affairs of Dragons/Dragon Tales” is a very amusing, enjoyable book.

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