Sophia and the Dragon Eye Charms
Beth Christopherson
Housecat and Box LLC (2024)
ISBN: 979-8990146327
Reviewed by Rachel Dehning for Reader Views (09/2024)
Eleven-year-old Sophia has recently moved to Texas with her parents, leaving her friends and familiarity behind, including the heartbreaking memories of her brother, Seth. When Sophia meets new friends, she learns that her past continues to impact her life. She becomes involved in a mission to save humankind and learns a powerful lesson about the importance of love trumping everything in “Sophia and the Dragon Eye Charms: The Secret of Okaas” by Beth Christopherson.
Shortly after moving, she meets Matteo, a kindhearted older man who gives her a charm that sets things in motion in Sophia’s life; this tests her love and trustworthiness in humankind, her bravery, and her willingness to push past personal boundaries that she has unknowingly constructed. To save the world, she must decide which version of herself she prefers and rely on the help of others – new friends that come in new shapes and colors.
Beth Christopherson’s newest series, Sophia and the Dragon Eye Charms includes a variety of themes and will check off every box for readers who enjoy fantasy (fairies, elves, dragons), adventure, suspense, and discovering a new way of viewing the world around us. While geared toward middle school readers, Christopherson proves that an exciting and page-turning journey is possible without the more “adult” themes present (no language, inappropriateness, or sensual activity), making for a refreshing read.
The solemn theme of death is prevalent throughout the story but included in a relatable way for readers, along with potentially negative consequences of one’s actions, regardless of their justification. Other themes include environmental safety and protection – learning to keep what we have in a positive state for future generations, and teamwork – utilizing a variety of talents to get the job done.
Beth Christopherson’s “The Secret of Okaas” is a detailed and intricate story that involves world-building in the central location of Lorendunine. The story is similar to the work of other well-known fantasy authors but less complicated for the intended audience. The story includes a well-rounded cast: a strong heroine, caring and supportive parents, a devious villain, and a supporting cast of helpers who allow for some unexpected twists in the end but overall remind us of the importance of the right attitude and mindset. It ends with an expected cliffhanger, leaving readers eager for the next two books in the Sophia and the Dragon Eye Charms series.