Merlin and the Dragons

This was by far one of my favorite picture books so far, and one I would buy for my own collection. The illustrations and text worked wonderfully together. The text is geared towards a more advanced picture book reader, but perhaps one who is not quite ready for chapter books. I really liked this modern interpretation of the history between King Arthur and Merlin. ( )

Young King Arthur is having nightmares and he can't seem to get rid of them. He goes to Merlin for comfort and Merlin tells hims the story of Emry. emry was a fatherless boy who could fortell the happenings of the world, from the arrival of the first spring robin to the disappearence of the sun from the sky. One day the evil Vortigern came to Emry's village and proclaimed hiumself king and that the townspeople will build him a tower. Arthur learns of his heritage and what it means to be a king.

I loved this story. Yolen takes the folk tale of King Arthur and tells the part of the tale where it is revealed to Arthur who he really is. The language is well chosen and used, and the illustrations are carefully and tastefully done. Merlin and the Dragons is for readers ages 8 and up. Adults will surely enjoy reading Merlin and the Dragons as much a kids will love being read to. At the start of the book, the author provides a small summary of the tale of Arther and Uther Pendragon. Merlin and the Dragons will spark young readers interest in folk tales and old stories, as well as provides an excellent starting place. ( )

This picture book by Jane Yolen is an excellent introduction to the world of King Arthur. The story is shared by Merlin to a young Arthur whose sleep has been disturbed by dreams. The pictures are excellent and the story is well written. ( )