Dragonology: The Complete Book of Dragons (Ologies) (original 2003; edition 2003)

Dragonology written by Dr. Ernest Drake is a wonderfully illustrated book with amazing pictures depicting the supernatural creatures known as dragons. The book reads like a science book in that it is divided into chapters that include the “Biology and Psychology of Dragons” and in that it includes detailed illustrations and explanations of dragons and their origins all over the world. Data such as dates and descriptions add to the “validity” of the information. I loved that the pictures are beautifully colored and that it is a large book where the reader may enjoy all the illustrations. The book includes fold outs that allowed the publishers to include extra information beyond the regular page. The pages also have scrapbook appeal as it includes items such as samples of “dragon specimens” that the reader may feel with his fingers but may not easily remove from the book since they are imbedded into the heavy paper that includes two layers. The author not only includes scientific information about dragons, but also adds depth to the dragon my developing many characteristics of dragons. For example, in Chapter IV the book has a creative pop out book of “Riddles and Puzzles” that may be used to distract a dragon in case of an emergency. The author states that, “Dragons are great lovers of riddles, and see them as intellectual and linguistic challenges”. This is a creative element since it defines the dragon not so much as a senseless killing fire breathing “monster”, but as an intellectual creature with great reasoning capabilities and physical strength. I thought it was an inspiring book for a child with a vivid imagination.
Ages 7 and up ( )

The true magic of this book is that it really appeals to all ages. Though aimed at elementary school children, it holds appeal to younger and older audiences. Plenty of beautifully sketched, black-and-white illustrations make it easy to read, yet the text is presented in such a way as to appeal to older children as well as younger. In addition, there are so many flaps, riddles, and other material to make this an extremely entertaining read for all. It can even be used as a learning tool—tales about dragon encounters could be used to teach children history and literature and the possible explanations for fiery dragon’s breath could be used in a science classroom. Matter-of-fact yet fanciful descriptions of dragons make it possible for the suspension of disbelief even after the book is finished—and make it a book to read over and over again. Though fictional, the sheer extent of information based on actual literature will appeal to even nonfiction lovers. ( )

This book is a marvelous piece of something just a bit more that fan fic. It has information on every kind of imaginary dragon and dragon-related artifact that you could ever think of. This book is a quick read, and it is easy to skim over some parts, but makes a great gift for small children, and is worth a look next time you go to your local library.

A must have for believers ;) ( )

This is a gorgeous, impressive book. Bound in red vinyl (?) with silver foil, and a glass dragon eye. No detail is spared, a very tactile, engaging experience. Children will want to handle this fragile book full of maps, fold outs, secret envelopes, riddles, spells, charms. A clever and dry encyclopedic guide to the dragon, everything you wanted to know from 'finding' to 'flying' them. Eccentric, a super find for Harry Potter fans. ( )