My thoughts on The Dragon Box by Katie W. Stewart
After seeing the talent, imagination and humour that Katie W. Stewart puts into her artwork, I knew I had to read one the books she's written. Katie is the illustrator or my Smelly Trolls series but also an author in her own right.
Katie has written books for children and young adults. I chose The Dragon Box, which is aimed at 8-12 year olds, because the people who ask me about Katie's books are usually children.
Katie's beautiful depiction of a dragon.
The Dragon Box is a magical chapter book, incorporating fantasy, adventure and humour.
James in an ordinary boy living in an ordinary world, which makes it all the more special when he's transported into a land filled with dragons, witches and goblins.
I particularly like the character of Mack - an elderly neighbour whose crazy inventions give rise to the whole adventure. He's the perfect flawed genius and I found some of his dialogue and actions greatly amusing.
I would have liked to see a little more danger and felt that some parts, especially in the first half of the book, were unnecessarily safe. However, I imagine this was a deliberate choice by the author, to cater for younger readers. The sense of security established at the beginning certainly allows the sense of peril to build to an exciting climax.
The book works without illustrations. But, because I know that Katie is such a brilliant artist, I would have liked to see some pictures.
The language is child-friendly and the story is easy to follow.
All in all, a magical book for children especially those who are just starting to appreciate longer reads.
Katie has recently started a cover design business called Magic Owl Designs.
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