Icefire

November 1, 2006
Gr 7 Up-This book expands on the dragon lore created in "The Fire Within" (Scholastic, 2005). College student David Rains new professor, Dr. Bergstrom, a polar research scientist, introduces him to legends from the Arctic and invites him to write an essay about dragons to qualify for a research trip. A succession of paranormal events leads to Davids flamboyant classmate Zanna inadvertently quickening a dragon egg belonging to his landlady, Liz. A powerful woman who calls herself Gwyneth, and who claims to be Lizs aunt, arrives to help with the arrival of the new dragon. David discovers that Gwyneth is a figure from dragon legends, and that her motivations may lead to harm for him and for his friends. His attempts to oppose her result in an action-packed conclusion, expanding further on the legends and leaving room for the final volume in the series. In contrast to the domestic story of "The Fire Within", "Icefire" offers a darker and more mature story. Lizs clay dragons develop a greater degree of realism within the story, and their background is further explored. Readers will find action and mysteries aplenty in this fantastic tale, as well as a group of appealing dragons who are tricky, heroic, and often charming."Beth L. Meister, Pleasant View Elementary School, Franklin, WI"

Copyright 2006 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

July 1, 2006
In this sequel to [cf2]The Fire Within[cf1], David struggles with writing, relationships, and his belief in dragons while mythic polar bears battle against an evil sibyl, dragging David, Liz, and Lucy into the conflict. The story and characters are too simplistic for David's age and issues, but the dragons and bears are intriguing, making for an enjoyable read.

(Copyright 2006 by The Horn Book, Incorporated, Boston. All rights reserved.)