Dragonkeeper

Carole Wilkinson

54 pages 1-hour read

Carole Wilkinson

Dragonkeeper

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2003

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Book Brief

Carole Wilkinson

Dragonkeeper

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2003
Book Details
Pages

368

Format

Novel • Fiction

Genre
Historical Fiction

Fantasy

Action & Adventure
Setting

Ancient China • Han Dynasty

Theme
Perseverance

Femininity

Childhood & Youth
Publication Year

2003

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

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Super Short Summary

In Dragonkeeper by Carole Wilkinson, a young girl in ancient China forms a bond with an aging dragon. Together, they embark on a journey filled with danger and discovery, as the girl learns about her own strength and destiny. Their adventure explores themes of friendship, courage, and self-discovery in a richly imagined historical setting.

Adventurous

Fantastical

Emotional

Inspirational

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Dragonkeeper by Carole Wilkinson captivates with its rich historical setting and engaging tale of bravery. Readers appreciate the intricate world-building and the heartfelt bond between the protagonist and the dragon. However, some find the pacing uneven. Overall, it's a compelling fantasy that resonates with both young and mature audiences alike.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Dragonkeeper?

Readers who relish adventure, fantasy, and historical settings akin to those in Eragon or Mulan will enjoy Dragonkeeper. Featuring a young heroine in ancient China, it appeals to those who appreciate tales of courage and friendship interwoven with rich cultural lore.

Character List

An eleven-year-old girl initially enslaved at the palace, who embarks on a journey toward greater freedom with the dragon Danzi. She is determined and kind-hearted, despite being plagued by self-doubt due to her abusive past.

A Chinese dragon who serves as Ping's mentor figure, characterized by his bluntness, stubbornness, and wisdom. He is deeply caring and protective, teaching Ping about the world as they travel together.

A ruthless dragon hunter who serves as the primary antagonist, known for slaughtering dragons for profit. He embodies violence and exploitation, contrasting with Ping’s commitment to safeguarding the dragons.

Based on the historical Emperor Wu of Han, Liu Che is both childish and mature, showing care for Ping while holding a self-centered view due to his privilege as emperor. His relationship with Ping shifts as the story unfolds.

An intelligent and kind herbalist who serves as a foil to Ping, struggling with guilt over failing to protect Danzi in the past. His actions are shaped by his ambition and internal conflict.

A character initially depicted as kind and maternal who later reveals cunning and traitorous tendencies. She serves as a false parental figure in Ping’s life.

A minor antagonist characterized by greed and violence, whose actions align with the straightforward danger recognized by Ping.

An overtly greedy and violent figure who represents a false parental influence in Ping’s life, from whom she eventually escapes.

Book Details
Pages

368

Format

Novel • Fiction

Genre
Historical Fiction

Fantasy

Action & Adventure
Setting

Ancient China • Han Dynasty

Theme
Perseverance

Femininity

Childhood & Youth
Publication Year

2003

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

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