The Last Dragonslayer (Chronicles of Kazam #1) by Jasper Fforde
October 2, 2012
HMH Books for Young Readers
Hardcover, 287 pgs.
What it’s about:
Jennifer Strange is a 15 year-old foundling who manages Kazam, an employment agency for magical types. Unfortunately for the resident wizards and magicians magic is fading. Whether it is the invention of modern conveniences or the dwindling dragon population, no one is sure why there is less magic to go around. However, everyone agrees that change is coming. Big change. Maybe even Big Magic. And it is all predicted to begin with the death of the last dragon at the hand of an unknown last dragonslayer. With the last dragon out the way the last of the protected dragon lands with be up for grabs and everyone in the Ununited Kingdoms want to stake a claim. Everyone except Jennifer. Will she be enough to stop the seemingly inevitable destruction of the dragon land?
Why you might like it:
What’s not to LOVE? Humor, magic, and dragons, PLUS a really interesting ethical conundrum. The Last Dragonslayer invites readers to think about destiny and greed and manipulation all while entertaining them with the antics of a quarkbeast. Oh, how I love the quarkbeast. If you are missing Harry Potter, give Jennifer Strange a try. If you are looking for a heroine who is unwavering in her beliefs, Jennifer is your gal. If you are looking for a fantastical story without any romance to gum up the works, this is the book for you. The Last Dragonslayer is pure, magical entertainment and suitable for all ages!
Want more like this?
For more dragons try Seraphina by Rachel Hartman, Eragon by Christopher Paolini, Dragonhaven by Robin McKinley, and Eon by Alison Goodman. For more wizards try The Wizard Heir by Cinda Williams Chima, The Young Wizards series by Diane Duane, and The Lockwood & Co. series by Jonathon Stroud.