Thomas and the Dragon Queen

Okay, I admit it. I love the books about knights. I especially love them when they are for eight and nine year olds who are looking for something that reflects their own search for nobility and meaning. These guys and girls have a tough time finding books that mirror their own inner quests. This one is enchanting and charming. Young Thomas is our hero and made even more so by being small for his age. But size is not obstacle to this young fellow with a heart the size of Texas and an inner compass for doing right. He is about to have a chance at knighthood when a traveling knight invites him to come to the castle to be trained as a squire and failing that at least a groomsman in the stables. Thomas' heart will carry him through difficult times in the training process where other boys laugh at him. But in battle Thomas proves himself valiant and ends up on a mission from the king to save the fair Princess Eleanor. He and his faithful donkey, Bartholomew set forth. Enter the monster in the lake and the sleeping dragon. Gentle adventure ensues and Thomas learns that it's important to understand your enemy before rushing to battle. The lovely Princess Eleanor is a wise young woman with a soft place in her heart for our hero and it is she who will educate young Thomas about many important lessons in life. Slightly comical black and white illustrations add a light, entertaining ingredient. Ah, a quest for a young heart. How wonderful! I was afraid they had gone out of style. 268 pages Ages 7-10