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Dragonborn
Become the impossible . . .
Life is no fun for Alex Evans. Ever since her dad's death, her overprotective mother has smothered her with unbreakable rules and unspoken fears. When the frustration inside Alex finally gets too big to bear, it rushes to the surface.
And flames spill from her mouth.
Because Alex is a dragon. One of the many who live among us, unless something awakens their true nature. Led by the mighty Oliphos to the legendary island of Skralla, Alex must now train alongside fierce, frightening dragon children, if she is to unlock the power of her birthright.
But other dragons are rising too. Drak Midna, the greatest dragon of all, is preparing a war against the human world, and Alex has to be good enough for this fight, or we all will burn . . .
Life is no fun for Alex Evans. Ever since her dad's death, her overprotective mother has smothered her with unbreakable rules and unspoken fears. When the frustration inside Alex finally gets too big to bear, it rushes to the surface.
And flames spill from her mouth.
Because Alex is a dragon. One of the many who live among us, unless something awakens their true nature. Led by the mighty Oliphos to the legendary island of Skralla, Alex must now train alongside fierce, frightening dragon children, if she is to unlock the power of her birthright.
But other dragons are rising too. Drak Midna, the greatest dragon of all, is preparing a war against the human world, and Alex has to be good enough for this fight, or we all will burn . . .
345 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 14, 2025
89 people are currently reading
9038 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 139 reviews
July 10, 2025
I've established that occasionally I turn to the middle-grade world of literature when I'm in need of a literary palate cleanser. If you're going to cleanse your palate, dragons might as well be involved.
Struan Murray's "Dragonborn" kicks off a middle-grade fantasy series about a secret world of dragons living at the edges of our own world and the Slumberers, humans who've forgotten their true selves until something comes along and awakens that truth.
Twelve-year-old Alex Evans is at the heart of Dragonborn. She's about to wake up.
We're introduced to a young girl struggling to deal with her father's death and struggling even more with her overprotective mother who has unbreakable rules and tries to monitor Alex's every move. This has worked for a while, however, as Alex is growing up and her grief intensifying her emotions begin to boil over as she resists her mother's control.
"Dragonborn" is likely an ideal middle-grade novel with its vivid imagery and emphasis on younger beings learning how to grow into who they really are. Once Alex gets a glimpse into that reality, she's off to a new school on the island of Skralla - a safe place for dragons where she trains alongside other dragons who are wild, untamed, and not necessarily prepared yet to use their dragon ways. Of course, there's an evil foe on the horizon and it will be Alex's experiences along with the race to deal with that foe that will define much of this first in the series.
I enjoyed the visual imagery created by Murray. It was easy to imagine this story being turned into a film, though even the most basic examination of its storyline has undeniable hints of Potter and even a bit of Star Wars. This isn't necessarily a bad thing, I enjoy both of those things. I struggled, at times, to visualize the characters - especially Alex. I think the adult mind went directions that a middle-grade reader wouldn't go with this story, however, some of the language just felt a bit, well, adult.
Overall, however, I greatly enjoyed "Dragonborn" and its journey into the world of dragons and, perhaps most uniquely, becoming a dragon. A fine introduction to the series, it will be interesting to see where Murray goes from here.
Struan Murray's "Dragonborn" kicks off a middle-grade fantasy series about a secret world of dragons living at the edges of our own world and the Slumberers, humans who've forgotten their true selves until something comes along and awakens that truth.
Twelve-year-old Alex Evans is at the heart of Dragonborn. She's about to wake up.
We're introduced to a young girl struggling to deal with her father's death and struggling even more with her overprotective mother who has unbreakable rules and tries to monitor Alex's every move. This has worked for a while, however, as Alex is growing up and her grief intensifying her emotions begin to boil over as she resists her mother's control.
"Dragonborn" is likely an ideal middle-grade novel with its vivid imagery and emphasis on younger beings learning how to grow into who they really are. Once Alex gets a glimpse into that reality, she's off to a new school on the island of Skralla - a safe place for dragons where she trains alongside other dragons who are wild, untamed, and not necessarily prepared yet to use their dragon ways. Of course, there's an evil foe on the horizon and it will be Alex's experiences along with the race to deal with that foe that will define much of this first in the series.
I enjoyed the visual imagery created by Murray. It was easy to imagine this story being turned into a film, though even the most basic examination of its storyline has undeniable hints of Potter and even a bit of Star Wars. This isn't necessarily a bad thing, I enjoy both of those things. I struggled, at times, to visualize the characters - especially Alex. I think the adult mind went directions that a middle-grade reader wouldn't go with this story, however, some of the language just felt a bit, well, adult.
Overall, however, I greatly enjoyed "Dragonborn" and its journey into the world of dragons and, perhaps most uniquely, becoming a dragon. A fine introduction to the series, it will be interesting to see where Murray goes from here.
May 8, 2025
Alex Evans lives with her SUPER overprotective mother who smothers her, controls every moment of her time, and never wants to talk about her dad. But Alex wants to talk about her dad, how much she misses him, what really happened to him; she wants to talk about the time they spent together in the woods... which is the one place she is ABSOLUTELY forbidden to go to.
One day, everything just becomes too much, and it spills out of Alex: she wants to scream and... out comes fire.
Because it turns out Alex is a dragon.
Events happen fast and furiously from here; she is taken to an island called Skralla, hidden in the in-between parts of the world, where she finds there are lots of others like her, both human and dragon. It's... weird and the other children are fierce and frightening, and they all know so much more about this world than Alex. To become part of this awe-inspiring (though pretty terrifying, honestly!) world, Alex needs to overcome her fears and fully transform... which turns out to be harder than she thought. Even with Oliphos, an amazing mentor, and some pretty cool friends, Alex can't do what's "she's supposed to do" - and when she finds out about the evil Drak Midna, a legendary dragon rising to fight a war, her specific gifts are needed. Will she always feel like an outsider?
Struan Murray has created a fantastic world here, with lots of fun and fabulous details, including other mythical creatures, and it was such a lot of fun to read! Alex is an interesting and nuanced character, who you can't help but root for as she grows apart from her mother, as she deals with the grief of her father's death, and the overwhelming world that she's propelled into. There are some other great side characters who are emotionally interesting too (often a problem with secondary characters), like Erik, Dr Archibald Puppinsworth and the other young dragons - Murray has written a story with a lot of heart.
This fun and fast middle grade will definitely appeal to young readers; the dragons are quite 'traditional' in terms of dragonlore, but sometimes the old ways are the best! We don't need the wheel reinvented with every new fantasy book, as Murray has proved; dragons are amazing, right?!
I look forward to the next instalment...
Thanks to NetGalley and Puffin for the copy to review!
One day, everything just becomes too much, and it spills out of Alex: she wants to scream and... out comes fire.
Because it turns out Alex is a dragon.
Events happen fast and furiously from here; she is taken to an island called Skralla, hidden in the in-between parts of the world, where she finds there are lots of others like her, both human and dragon. It's... weird and the other children are fierce and frightening, and they all know so much more about this world than Alex. To become part of this awe-inspiring (though pretty terrifying, honestly!) world, Alex needs to overcome her fears and fully transform... which turns out to be harder than she thought. Even with Oliphos, an amazing mentor, and some pretty cool friends, Alex can't do what's "she's supposed to do" - and when she finds out about the evil Drak Midna, a legendary dragon rising to fight a war, her specific gifts are needed. Will she always feel like an outsider?
Struan Murray has created a fantastic world here, with lots of fun and fabulous details, including other mythical creatures, and it was such a lot of fun to read! Alex is an interesting and nuanced character, who you can't help but root for as she grows apart from her mother, as she deals with the grief of her father's death, and the overwhelming world that she's propelled into. There are some other great side characters who are emotionally interesting too (often a problem with secondary characters), like Erik, Dr Archibald Puppinsworth and the other young dragons - Murray has written a story with a lot of heart.
This fun and fast middle grade will definitely appeal to young readers; the dragons are quite 'traditional' in terms of dragonlore, but sometimes the old ways are the best! We don't need the wheel reinvented with every new fantasy book, as Murray has proved; dragons are amazing, right?!
I look forward to the next instalment...
Thanks to NetGalley and Puffin for the copy to review!
November 26, 2025
If anyone had seen me reading his you would have witnessed gasps, chuckles, hands clasped over my mouth and tears aplenty as I was whisked around the twists and turns of this fire-filled adventure. A coming-of-dragon story of bravery, grief and forgiveness that rivals the childhood classics of my youth. Fans of Impossible Creatures will gobble this up!
May 19, 2025
3.5. One of the better modern middle grade fantasies, but the main character was a bit of a wet wipe.
August 1, 2025
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
If you’re a fan of Impossible Creatures, Eragon, and Percy Jackson, this book is perfect for you! There’s dragons, unraveling of secrets, and it’s packed with action & adventure. Perfect for school-age readers with fast pacing and insightful themes.
👩🏻🏫💡 I received this book to read as an Advanced Reader/Review Copy (ARC) in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are entirely my own.
Writing & Pacing:
The setting is easily depicted through illustrative words which make you feel as if you’re experiencing the world within the book. The writing is written in third-person POV, which allows the story to remain mysterious so that we find out the ‘plot’ along with the characters. It’s very easy to read, and from the beginning of the book, it’s very fast-paced which makes time fly by as you read.
Characters & Themes:
The main character undergoes coming-of-age and discovering identity and truth. There’s secrets left to be told, and relationships and friendships tested and questioned. One of the worst written characters in this book is the mom. I feel like she was a bit worthless in this story, but I still can’t figure out if that’s intentional (for now). Also, the main themes to the plot of the book occurs in the “third scene”, so I did feel a little lost in where this story was going at first.
Areas for Improvement:
I personally would have loved more in-depth world-building, but I know this is a middle-grade book, so I think overall it’s appropriate for the age group. Some of the supporting characters could also have more development/arc to their own story. The themes could also be more predominant in the earlier part of the book so that it’s easier for readers to become engaged. The ending to the book is a bit predictable, but overall, it felt appropriate that it was more of a “feel good” adventure book geared for young kids. I think the younger kids of the targeted age group would definitely enjoy this!
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing an advance reader copy (ARC) in exchange for my honest review.
——
Rating Criteria:
1/5: 🌟 Horrible - “Why did I even waste my time?”
2/5: 🌟🌟 Unimpressed - It could have been better.
3/5: 🌟🌟🌟 Good/Average- I would recommend this, but nothing was too out of the ordinary; it’s what’s expected.
4/5: 🌟🌟🌟🌟 Great! - There were some good surprises, but not enough to blow my mind.
5/5: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Outstanding - Above & Beyond, It left me wanting more and thinking more about it.
If you’re a fan of Impossible Creatures, Eragon, and Percy Jackson, this book is perfect for you! There’s dragons, unraveling of secrets, and it’s packed with action & adventure. Perfect for school-age readers with fast pacing and insightful themes.
👩🏻🏫💡 I received this book to read as an Advanced Reader/Review Copy (ARC) in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are entirely my own.
Writing & Pacing:
The setting is easily depicted through illustrative words which make you feel as if you’re experiencing the world within the book. The writing is written in third-person POV, which allows the story to remain mysterious so that we find out the ‘plot’ along with the characters. It’s very easy to read, and from the beginning of the book, it’s very fast-paced which makes time fly by as you read.
Characters & Themes:
The main character undergoes coming-of-age and discovering identity and truth. There’s secrets left to be told, and relationships and friendships tested and questioned. One of the worst written characters in this book is the mom. I feel like she was a bit worthless in this story, but I still can’t figure out if that’s intentional (for now). Also, the main themes to the plot of the book occurs in the “third scene”, so I did feel a little lost in where this story was going at first.
Areas for Improvement:
I personally would have loved more in-depth world-building, but I know this is a middle-grade book, so I think overall it’s appropriate for the age group. Some of the supporting characters could also have more development/arc to their own story. The themes could also be more predominant in the earlier part of the book so that it’s easier for readers to become engaged. The ending to the book is a bit predictable, but overall, it felt appropriate that it was more of a “feel good” adventure book geared for young kids. I think the younger kids of the targeted age group would definitely enjoy this!
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing an advance reader copy (ARC) in exchange for my honest review.
——
Rating Criteria:
1/5: 🌟 Horrible - “Why did I even waste my time?”
2/5: 🌟🌟 Unimpressed - It could have been better.
3/5: 🌟🌟🌟 Good/Average- I would recommend this, but nothing was too out of the ordinary; it’s what’s expected.
4/5: 🌟🌟🌟🌟 Great! - There were some good surprises, but not enough to blow my mind.
5/5: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Outstanding - Above & Beyond, It left me wanting more and thinking more about it.
July 12, 2025
I liked the concept of this book, which is that there was a great war between humans and dragons, and to end it, the dragons had to disguise themselves as humans, and live amongst them, and then forget they were ever dragons.
Now, doesn't that sound like a great book?
And, the main character, Alex, can hear the dead, dead dragons that is. Apparently this is a rare skill.
So, children that are dragon born are collected and taken to a magic relhm where they can learn how to transform into dragons. But Alex just can't transform. She can breath fire, soemtimes, but change, nope, she couldn't.
Now, I could get it if that kept not happening for part of the book, but it was worse than that.
And because of that, I felt as though the book was dragging on, as more and more people were revealed to not be as they seemed.
I wanted to finish it, because I wanted to know what was going to happen, but I felt began to not care, and lost track of who was who, until I finally came to the grand fanale, which hints that there will be more books in the series.
One reviewered called it Harry Potter, but with Dragons. I tend to agree.
If you like middle grade books about dragons that become people and then dragons, who all hang out together at a magical school, where they are trained to fight to prepare for the bad guy coming back to take over, then sure, give this a try.
Otherwise, I'm sure there are other good dragon books out there.
Thanks to Netgalley for making this book available for an honest reivew. This book is coming out October 15, 2025
Now, doesn't that sound like a great book?
And, the main character, Alex, can hear the dead, dead dragons that is. Apparently this is a rare skill.
So, children that are dragon born are collected and taken to a magic relhm where they can learn how to transform into dragons. But Alex just can't transform. She can breath fire, soemtimes, but change, nope, she couldn't.
Now, I could get it if that kept not happening for part of the book, but it was worse than that.
And because of that, I felt as though the book was dragging on, as more and more people were revealed to not be as they seemed.
I wanted to finish it, because I wanted to know what was going to happen, but I felt began to not care, and lost track of who was who, until I finally came to the grand fanale, which hints that there will be more books in the series.
One reviewered called it Harry Potter, but with Dragons. I tend to agree.
If you like middle grade books about dragons that become people and then dragons, who all hang out together at a magical school, where they are trained to fight to prepare for the bad guy coming back to take over, then sure, give this a try.
Otherwise, I'm sure there are other good dragon books out there.
Thanks to Netgalley for making this book available for an honest reivew. This book is coming out October 15, 2025
October 14, 2025
Book Feature + Review🐉
thank you so much partner @PenguinKids @storygramtours for the gifted copy!
Dragonborn
by Struan Murray
About the book 👇🏽
There is a secret world of dragons that lurks at the edges of our own. But dragons also live among us. These Slumberers have been human for so long they have forgotten their true selves—until something awakens the dragon within. Twelve-year-old Alex Evans is about to wake up. Ever since her father’s death, Alex’s overprotective mother has smothered her with unbreakable rules and unspoken fears. Feeling trapped, Alex’s frustration has become too big to hide away. Burning inside, she erupts into a fierce, fiery roar. A new school and a new life await Alex on the legendary island of Skralla, one of the last surviving dragon havens. There, she will train alongside other young dragons who are wild, untamed, and—unlike Alex—skilled at transforming and embracing their dragons within. As dark factions begin to rise, Alex finds herself in a race to unlock her long-dormant power before Drak Midna, the greatest dragon of all, rises again to wage war against the human world.
✨ My thoughts:
I loved this one so much! This is such a good middle grade fantasy that so many are going to read and love. I know for me it’s a book I’ll be holding onto forever and can’t wait to share with my boys to read. It is full of action and surprises making it such a bingeable read for readers of all ages. I also really like that the world building is easy to follow which is great for readers that are new to fantasy. Honestly, I could gush about this one forever! I am already excited for book number two. If you enjoy adventurous young fantasy with dragons make sure you get your hands on Dragonborn this publication day!!
Happy reading 📖✨🐉
#Dragonborn #PenguinKidsPartner #storygramkids
thank you so much partner @PenguinKids @storygramtours for the gifted copy!
Dragonborn
by Struan Murray
About the book 👇🏽
There is a secret world of dragons that lurks at the edges of our own. But dragons also live among us. These Slumberers have been human for so long they have forgotten their true selves—until something awakens the dragon within. Twelve-year-old Alex Evans is about to wake up. Ever since her father’s death, Alex’s overprotective mother has smothered her with unbreakable rules and unspoken fears. Feeling trapped, Alex’s frustration has become too big to hide away. Burning inside, she erupts into a fierce, fiery roar. A new school and a new life await Alex on the legendary island of Skralla, one of the last surviving dragon havens. There, she will train alongside other young dragons who are wild, untamed, and—unlike Alex—skilled at transforming and embracing their dragons within. As dark factions begin to rise, Alex finds herself in a race to unlock her long-dormant power before Drak Midna, the greatest dragon of all, rises again to wage war against the human world.
✨ My thoughts:
I loved this one so much! This is such a good middle grade fantasy that so many are going to read and love. I know for me it’s a book I’ll be holding onto forever and can’t wait to share with my boys to read. It is full of action and surprises making it such a bingeable read for readers of all ages. I also really like that the world building is easy to follow which is great for readers that are new to fantasy. Honestly, I could gush about this one forever! I am already excited for book number two. If you enjoy adventurous young fantasy with dragons make sure you get your hands on Dragonborn this publication day!!
Happy reading 📖✨🐉
#Dragonborn #PenguinKidsPartner #storygramkids
September 22, 2025
I must be in my middle grade era! A fantasy book about a 12 year old girl finding out she is a dragon, but she doesn’t know how to turn into that dragon she is told she is. Seeing Alex become a confident person is so heart warming. The dragons she learns from are wise and patient. What’s really a fun spin is that the dragons can change back to human form. I love the elements of magic in this book. Can’t wait to talk to others about this!
August 13, 2025
I absolutely loved this story. It was full of heart, the world building was really magnificent. I was totally absorbed. I’ve read a lot of middle grade books and this is straight into my top ten.
I completely understand that it’s each to their own & this one really suited me.
… I may well have cried (page 254 ish) & gasped ( I’ll not tell you where, don’t want to spoil anything)
I completely understand that it’s each to their own & this one really suited me.
… I may well have cried (page 254 ish) & gasped ( I’ll not tell you where, don’t want to spoil anything)
December 7, 2025
Beautifully crafted, great pacing, and tons of emotion. Looking forward to the rest of the series.
May 26, 2025
Dragons! Need I say more? Well I'm going to anyway.
Alex's life is carved into an iron-clad regime by her overbearing mother: if she's not at school, she's kept busy with activities, told not to speak to anyone else, and to never return to the woods she and her dad used to adventure in. Alex is desperate to escape the grip of her mother and structure, to go back to the wildness and magical stories her dad taught her. It's not long before she's breaking the rules and screaming for freedom in the woods.
Screaming tends to wake things up. Alex hasn't just stirred the magic of the forest, she's awoken something within herself, something with claws and teeth, flame and shadow. She's faced with the unbelievable truth - Alex is a dragon. It's not long before the mighty Oliphos is guiding her to her true self on the hidden island of Skralla, where she meets other wild dragon children in training, learns about the elite team of dragon warriors - the Skarren-Har - and discovers the power she wields from the dragon she's reluctant to release.
But Alex must learn to free her dragon; the deadly Drak Midna has hidden in the shadows for 3,000 years old, but the dragons sense he's on the move. He'll stop at nothing to have control of all slumbering dragonborns, and only Alex has the power to stop him. Can she face her fears and let go of everything, or will the world burn around her?
Entertaining from the outset, Dragonborn is an electrifying story for young readers. Struan Murray delves into the world of Skralla and its lore without it getting complicated or drawing from the main plot, and brings a variety of characters and real-world thinking to it. Murray writes in a way that doesn't over-simplify the themes and respects young readers to handle the topics of grief, self-discovery, and resilience, with comedic and fantasy elements keeping the story from becoming too serious.
Dragonborn follows the archetypical plot of a young fantasy story, and yet I didn't see the plot twists coming at the end (there's a real red herring!). An exciting and refreshing take on dragons and their place in the modern world, Dragonborn is a fiery new series for young fiction and Struan Murray is just warming up...
Thanks to NetGalley for the access!
Alex's life is carved into an iron-clad regime by her overbearing mother: if she's not at school, she's kept busy with activities, told not to speak to anyone else, and to never return to the woods she and her dad used to adventure in. Alex is desperate to escape the grip of her mother and structure, to go back to the wildness and magical stories her dad taught her. It's not long before she's breaking the rules and screaming for freedom in the woods.
Screaming tends to wake things up. Alex hasn't just stirred the magic of the forest, she's awoken something within herself, something with claws and teeth, flame and shadow. She's faced with the unbelievable truth - Alex is a dragon. It's not long before the mighty Oliphos is guiding her to her true self on the hidden island of Skralla, where she meets other wild dragon children in training, learns about the elite team of dragon warriors - the Skarren-Har - and discovers the power she wields from the dragon she's reluctant to release.
But Alex must learn to free her dragon; the deadly Drak Midna has hidden in the shadows for 3,000 years old, but the dragons sense he's on the move. He'll stop at nothing to have control of all slumbering dragonborns, and only Alex has the power to stop him. Can she face her fears and let go of everything, or will the world burn around her?
Entertaining from the outset, Dragonborn is an electrifying story for young readers. Struan Murray delves into the world of Skralla and its lore without it getting complicated or drawing from the main plot, and brings a variety of characters and real-world thinking to it. Murray writes in a way that doesn't over-simplify the themes and respects young readers to handle the topics of grief, self-discovery, and resilience, with comedic and fantasy elements keeping the story from becoming too serious.
Dragonborn follows the archetypical plot of a young fantasy story, and yet I didn't see the plot twists coming at the end (there's a real red herring!). An exciting and refreshing take on dragons and their place in the modern world, Dragonborn is a fiery new series for young fiction and Struan Murray is just warming up...
Thanks to NetGalley for the access!
August 5, 2025
I gave this book 3.75 for review
I had a really fun time with this book. i really liked the characters. I did not feel that connected to them. I thought this was a very plot focuesed story and loved that it was unique take on dragon culture. I also thought this book gave me red from pixar vibes. I also really hope we get more books set in this world. I also thought this was a fun an action based story. I would def read a sequel!!
I had a really fun time with this book. i really liked the characters. I did not feel that connected to them. I thought this was a very plot focuesed story and loved that it was unique take on dragon culture. I also thought this book gave me red from pixar vibes. I also really hope we get more books set in this world. I also thought this was a fun an action based story. I would def read a sequel!!
June 4, 2025
One of the better MGs I have read recently. I loved the Dragonborn idea and that pretty much anything was magic. I loved Alex's powers and the exploration of her grief and the strict parenting of her mother.
I think some of the plot twists were a bit lackluster, only really making sense in the last few chapters but still I had fun with it.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publishers for the ARC!
I think some of the plot twists were a bit lackluster, only really making sense in the last few chapters but still I had fun with it.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publishers for the ARC!
August 16, 2025
“Because you see, dear reader, it’s all out there: the make-believe made real. If you look hard enough, you’ll find that the world is much, much bigger than you thought it was.”*
𝘋𝘳𝘢𝘨𝘰𝘯𝘣𝘰𝘳𝘯 follows Alex Evans, a teenage girl who lives with her mother near the woods. Alex is grieving her father, whose mysterious death has made her mother overprotective of Alex.
After a stranger appears at her home, Alex discovers she was born a dragon and departs to the fabled island of Skralla to live and learn with the other dragon children.
𝘋𝘳𝘢𝘨𝘰𝘯𝘣𝘰𝘳𝘯 is packed with features kids love: a fierce, but bewildered young hero, fire-breathing dragons, mythical creatures, great secondary characters, and a battle of good over evil.
One theme I appreciated was how Alex’s efforts to become a dragon lagged behind her fellow students, a situation that may resonate with kids struggling to keep up with their classmates. Even with the support of her new friends, Kaida and Erik, she becomes increasingly frustrated with her progress and searches for alternative ways to achieve success.
The book also looks at dealing with grief, overcoming painful setbacks, and discovering that sometimes people are not who you think they are. One aspect of the book that I struggled with is that Black dragons are portrayed as evil. Although common in Western literature, it also perpetuates a negative stereotype that black = bad.
𝘋𝘳𝘢𝘨𝘰𝘯𝘣𝘰𝘳𝘯 would be fun to read with friends, allowing them to discuss each turn of events. I understand that Dragonborn is the first of a new series, and I look forward to future adventures with Alex and her friends!
Rec’d for readers age 9-12
November 13, 2025
Absolutely LOVED this book! Thanks to the publisher for handing an ARC of this out at--I think ALA? I think that's where I got my copy.
Finally, a damn dragon book that actually includes dragons throughout the story instead of metaphorical dragons!
It's quite literally got it all--action, adventure, mystery, drama, and DRAGONS.
I especially love the island of dragons and the other dragon kids. I will say, this is still a middle grade book so many of the side characters are pretty one note, but I especially liked Erik and the older dragon whose name I forgot whoops. The "bully" dragon in this book was pretty brutal and there's something he does in the book that I found absolutely unforgiveable but it was SO captivating and dramatic!
Alex struggles throughout the book to find her inner dragon and fully transform into one. Some reviews say they don't like how long it took for her to transform but I quite liked that--it made her eventual transformation all the more satisfying. Plus, she was grieving her father and her "normal" life--it's only natural she'd struggle to accept who she is. I really like how Erik helped her find her eventual dragon with support and kindness.
Very enjoyable book--this is still a middle grade book that's pretty "light" on the characters and writing but I really had a hard time putting it down because it was so much fun! Highly rec for dragon fans!
Finally, a damn dragon book that actually includes dragons throughout the story instead of metaphorical dragons!
It's quite literally got it all--action, adventure, mystery, drama, and DRAGONS.
I especially love the island of dragons and the other dragon kids. I will say, this is still a middle grade book so many of the side characters are pretty one note, but I especially liked Erik and the older dragon whose name I forgot whoops. The "bully" dragon in this book was pretty brutal and there's something he does in the book that I found absolutely unforgiveable but it was SO captivating and dramatic!
Alex struggles throughout the book to find her inner dragon and fully transform into one. Some reviews say they don't like how long it took for her to transform but I quite liked that--it made her eventual transformation all the more satisfying. Plus, she was grieving her father and her "normal" life--it's only natural she'd struggle to accept who she is. I really like how Erik helped her find her eventual dragon with support and kindness.
Very enjoyable book--this is still a middle grade book that's pretty "light" on the characters and writing but I really had a hard time putting it down because it was so much fun! Highly rec for dragon fans!
September 4, 2025
I loved this book. It has a very Harry Potter vibe, and Alex is a bit like Harry, but different. It struck me that Alex was on a quest for more than one thing. Like Harry, this book is very much about good vs. evil.
Alex is a young girl still dealing with grief over her father’s sudden death and her mother’s changed treatment of her. She’s learning to move forward, but it’s hard, and she can’t let go of the things she and her father shared. When a kind older man shows up in her house, she’s shocked at what she will learn from him. She’s doubly shocked when he takes her off to a school for dragons on a remote island. Alex will learn that she holds remarkable powers, and she will discover that she has more courage and bravery than she’d ever have thought.
This was a book of kindness and cruelty, of secrets and surprises, of coming of age and coming to terms with who you really are. It’s about friendship, dragons, and children saving the day. It left me feeling good and eager for more.
The writing is flawless. The plot develops at a good pace. The characters are realistic and believable (despite their turning into dragons). All in all, this was a highly enjoyable read.
I believe that this is the first book in a series. I certainly hope that it is. I can’t wait for the second book to come out, and this one isn’t even published yet. I highly recommend this book if you enjoy fantasy, dragons, and/or boarding school settings. You won’t be disappointed.
I received an advanced reader copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley. I thank all involved for their generosity, but it had no effect on this review. All opinions in this review reflect my true and honest reactions to reading this book.
Alex is a young girl still dealing with grief over her father’s sudden death and her mother’s changed treatment of her. She’s learning to move forward, but it’s hard, and she can’t let go of the things she and her father shared. When a kind older man shows up in her house, she’s shocked at what she will learn from him. She’s doubly shocked when he takes her off to a school for dragons on a remote island. Alex will learn that she holds remarkable powers, and she will discover that she has more courage and bravery than she’d ever have thought.
This was a book of kindness and cruelty, of secrets and surprises, of coming of age and coming to terms with who you really are. It’s about friendship, dragons, and children saving the day. It left me feeling good and eager for more.
The writing is flawless. The plot develops at a good pace. The characters are realistic and believable (despite their turning into dragons). All in all, this was a highly enjoyable read.
I believe that this is the first book in a series. I certainly hope that it is. I can’t wait for the second book to come out, and this one isn’t even published yet. I highly recommend this book if you enjoy fantasy, dragons, and/or boarding school settings. You won’t be disappointed.
I received an advanced reader copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley. I thank all involved for their generosity, but it had no effect on this review. All opinions in this review reflect my true and honest reactions to reading this book.
September 2, 2025
Thank you Penguin Young Reader Group for the eARC!
Rating - 4/5 🌟
Dragonborn was such a fun read! 🐉
Perfect for 6th grade and up, it’s a mix of dragons, magic ✨, and figuring out who you really are. Alex is such a relatable main character—shy, grieving 💔, and not sure where she fits—until she discovers she’s part dragon. Watching her struggle, train, and slowly accept herself was my favorite part 💪.
The world is creative and easy to fall into 🌍, though a couple of spots dragged a little. Still, the themes of belonging and self-acceptance really shine through 💖. A great fantasy adventure with heart!
Can't wait to continue the story in the next one!
Rating - 4/5 🌟
Dragonborn was such a fun read! 🐉
Perfect for 6th grade and up, it’s a mix of dragons, magic ✨, and figuring out who you really are. Alex is such a relatable main character—shy, grieving 💔, and not sure where she fits—until she discovers she’s part dragon. Watching her struggle, train, and slowly accept herself was my favorite part 💪.
The world is creative and easy to fall into 🌍, though a couple of spots dragged a little. Still, the themes of belonging and self-acceptance really shine through 💖. A great fantasy adventure with heart!
Can't wait to continue the story in the next one!
August 22, 2025
Content guide:
Foul language: none
Sexual content: none
Violence: a big conclusion battle with fantasy violence.
Substance use: none
Trigger warnings: memories of death
Dragonborn is a really good book about Alex, a young, outdoorsy, adventurous girl with an overprotective mother. When she discovers that she can turn into a dragon, she finds an exciting new world with the freedom she's been waiting for. The plot is interesting, with plenty of dramatic reveals to drive the plot forward. I would recommend this book to anyone ages 10 and up who likes fantasy.
Foul language: none
Sexual content: none
Violence: a big conclusion battle with fantasy violence.
Substance use: none
Trigger warnings: memories of death
Dragonborn is a really good book about Alex, a young, outdoorsy, adventurous girl with an overprotective mother. When she discovers that she can turn into a dragon, she finds an exciting new world with the freedom she's been waiting for. The plot is interesting, with plenty of dramatic reveals to drive the plot forward. I would recommend this book to anyone ages 10 and up who likes fantasy.
December 17, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This was a great middle grade dragon novel. I really enjoyed the shifter part of this story and how the dragons have a human form. The story was multi-layered and interesting with so much lore and magic. I look forward to seeing where this story goes.
This was a great middle grade dragon novel. I really enjoyed the shifter part of this story and how the dragons have a human form. The story was multi-layered and interesting with so much lore and magic. I look forward to seeing where this story goes.
August 31, 2025
I don't read much middle grade anymore, but I like this authors writing and it has dragons. I had to read it right?
Ever since her dad died, Alex has pretty much been a prisoner in her own home. To say her mother has become over protective is a massive understatement.
Then one day it just becomes too much and Alex screams in frustration. But, it isn't just a scream that comes out, it's fire.
This was such a fun read. It has so many of my favorite things, dragons, found family, and fairies.
Thank you to Net Galley and the publisher for an early copy.
Ever since her dad died, Alex has pretty much been a prisoner in her own home. To say her mother has become over protective is a massive understatement.
Then one day it just becomes too much and Alex screams in frustration. But, it isn't just a scream that comes out, it's fire.
This was such a fun read. It has so many of my favorite things, dragons, found family, and fairies.
Thank you to Net Galley and the publisher for an early copy.
July 29, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Dragonborn by Struan Murray
Mark my words—this is the next big series for kids. It will be flying off the shelves!
Dragonborn by Struan Murray completely swept me away. From the very first page, I felt that rare, heart-stirring excitement that I had as a kid reading Harry Potter for the first time. The magic, the mystery, the sense of wonder—it’s all here, and done so beautifully. The world-building is rich and imaginative, the story filled with twists, secrets, and a deep sense of adventure. But what stood out most to me was the friendship—genuine, loyal, and tested in all the best ways. I connected with the characters instantly and found myself completely invested in their journey. If you’re looking for a book that captures that nostalgic spark of childhood wonder while delivering a fresh, original story, Dragonborn is a must-read. I absolutely loved it and can’t wait to see where this series goes next.
Thank you @penguinkids for the #gifted copy! Get your copy October 2025!
Dragonborn by Struan Murray
Mark my words—this is the next big series for kids. It will be flying off the shelves!
Dragonborn by Struan Murray completely swept me away. From the very first page, I felt that rare, heart-stirring excitement that I had as a kid reading Harry Potter for the first time. The magic, the mystery, the sense of wonder—it’s all here, and done so beautifully. The world-building is rich and imaginative, the story filled with twists, secrets, and a deep sense of adventure. But what stood out most to me was the friendship—genuine, loyal, and tested in all the best ways. I connected with the characters instantly and found myself completely invested in their journey. If you’re looking for a book that captures that nostalgic spark of childhood wonder while delivering a fresh, original story, Dragonborn is a must-read. I absolutely loved it and can’t wait to see where this series goes next.
Thank you @penguinkids for the #gifted copy! Get your copy October 2025!
November 4, 2025
This is one of the best books I’ve read this year. I’m still thinking about it and missing the world after weeks!
This book gave major Percy Jackson vibes with even more real and tangible emotional expression.
Where Percy accepts the events and changes in his life with little argument, Alex shows real distrust at being taken to a new place by a stranger, real fear and shock about learning the truths of her life, and tangible anxiety and fear about going through major physical and emotional transformation.
This is a story about grief, loss, and hope. I loved learning about the dragons and their world. We also get to see prejudice again the dragons from some humans. The topics in the book are deep and the author shares the character’s experience so approachably.
I highly recommend this book and I’m so excited to read this with my future kids one day!
Thank you NetGalley and Penguin for this eARC!
This book gave major Percy Jackson vibes with even more real and tangible emotional expression.
Where Percy accepts the events and changes in his life with little argument, Alex shows real distrust at being taken to a new place by a stranger, real fear and shock about learning the truths of her life, and tangible anxiety and fear about going through major physical and emotional transformation.
This is a story about grief, loss, and hope. I loved learning about the dragons and their world. We also get to see prejudice again the dragons from some humans. The topics in the book are deep and the author shares the character’s experience so approachably.
I highly recommend this book and I’m so excited to read this with my future kids one day!
Thank you NetGalley and Penguin for this eARC!
November 6, 2025
This was a great middle grade book, perfect for those who love dragons and coming into oneself. I loved how the story was told and definitely recommend it! I listened to the audiobook and enjoyed the narrators. I do wish I would have been able to read the physical copy though, but that's mainly because my copy was destroyed and fell down a waterfall when I was trying to take a photo for Instagram... Otherwise, this was a great read that had enough action and adventure for kids to enjoy.
July 18, 2025
My son and I both finished this book in a few hours so just a heads up if you love dragons, magic, and a whole lot of fiery attitude, Dragonborn will be your new obsession!
Alex is a regular kid stuck under her mom’s serious rules until BAM! She discovers she’s actually a dragon slumbering in human form, yeah, mind blown! Now she’s off to Skralla, this epic island where other dragon kids are already rocking their powers, and Alex’s gotta catch up, fast!
There’s friendship, fierce battles, and a race against time before the ultimate dragon baddie, Drak Midna, wakes up to mess things up big time. Think Harry Potter meets How to Train Your Dragon with a seriously kick butt heroine who’s all about unleashing her inner fire.
⚡️Thank you StoryGram Kids, Struan Murray and Dutton Books for Young Readers for sharing this book with me!
Alex is a regular kid stuck under her mom’s serious rules until BAM! She discovers she’s actually a dragon slumbering in human form, yeah, mind blown! Now she’s off to Skralla, this epic island where other dragon kids are already rocking their powers, and Alex’s gotta catch up, fast!
There’s friendship, fierce battles, and a race against time before the ultimate dragon baddie, Drak Midna, wakes up to mess things up big time. Think Harry Potter meets How to Train Your Dragon with a seriously kick butt heroine who’s all about unleashing her inner fire.
⚡️Thank you StoryGram Kids, Struan Murray and Dutton Books for Young Readers for sharing this book with me!
July 21, 2025
Thank you, NetGalley and Penguin Young Readers Group, for providing me with a copy of Dragonborn by Struan Murray in exchange for my honest review. #Dragonborn #NetGalley
Let me start this by saying that I am an avid fantasy reader. The concept of this book intrigued me because it explores the idea of humans becoming dragons. The story is told from the perspective of Alex, the main character, a 12-year-old girl who has just discovered that she is a dragon. Alex has a unique and special gift, and she has yet to transform into a dragon on her own. Her focus should be on learning how to transform, etc, but she feels the need to make things right without knowing the true consequences of her actions. Alex is a typical teenager in that aspect. Overall, the story felt predictable, like I knew what was going to happen next. I might recommend this to a reader who might be interested in dragons, because this book felt like I learned a little bit about dragons. I hope that the second book focuses more on dragons, their powers, etc.
Let me start this by saying that I am an avid fantasy reader. The concept of this book intrigued me because it explores the idea of humans becoming dragons. The story is told from the perspective of Alex, the main character, a 12-year-old girl who has just discovered that she is a dragon. Alex has a unique and special gift, and she has yet to transform into a dragon on her own. Her focus should be on learning how to transform, etc, but she feels the need to make things right without knowing the true consequences of her actions. Alex is a typical teenager in that aspect. Overall, the story felt predictable, like I knew what was going to happen next. I might recommend this to a reader who might be interested in dragons, because this book felt like I learned a little bit about dragons. I hope that the second book focuses more on dragons, their powers, etc.
October 22, 2025
3.5 I will be recommending it left and right to kids but to my taste the pace was off and the relationships between characters would have benefited from some work on organic development. The main character was also… so wet???? Lots of fun though and very imaginative.
June 11, 2025
If there is one author that can get you out of a reading slump, it’s Struan Murray.
Everything he has ever written has been different and exciting and I knew this was going to be no different.
Become the impossible . . .
Life is no fun for Alex Evans. Ever since her dad's death, her overprotective mother has smothered her with unbreakable rules and unspoken fears. When the frustration inside Alex finally gets too big to bear, it rushes to the surface.
And flames spill from her mouth.
Because Alex is a dragon. One of the many who live among us, unless something awakens their true nature. Led by the mighty Oliphos to the legendary island of Skralla, Alex must now train alongside fierce, frightening dragon children, if she is to unlock the power of her birthright.
But other dragons are rising too. Drak Midna, the greatest dragon of all, is preparing a war against the human world, and Alex has to be good enough for this fight, or we all will burn . . .
The first thing that grabbed my attention was that this is the start of a brand new series, a series with my favourite elements magic and dragons.
And what a first book in the series this turned out to be.
It was an edge of your seat rollercoaster ride, so fast paced that if I had been the main character that I would have needed a massive lay down.
The author has created a fantastic world which is so fun to live in, and the world is so detailed that you can picture it in your mind's eye and the mythical creatures are truly some of the best I have written,
. The main character Alice is so well plotted and thought out. You feel the grief she is going through after losing her dad, you feel how overwhelming she feels with life. You will definitely find yourself rooting for her. But in this book the author has made the secondary characters really interesting . In other books a lot of secondary characters are just that,characters in the background. There were some very emotional scenes that these characters had, and I was heartbroken with how life was for Erik, and I found him becoming my favourite character. And how we left him at the end of the book.There were 3 places in the book that I had to re-read because I couldn’t believe how these characters weren’t who I thought they were and what the author had made them into.
This is an exciting middle grade full of adventure and heart and I really hope the next book isn’t too long in coming.
Everything he has ever written has been different and exciting and I knew this was going to be no different.
Become the impossible . . .
Life is no fun for Alex Evans. Ever since her dad's death, her overprotective mother has smothered her with unbreakable rules and unspoken fears. When the frustration inside Alex finally gets too big to bear, it rushes to the surface.
And flames spill from her mouth.
Because Alex is a dragon. One of the many who live among us, unless something awakens their true nature. Led by the mighty Oliphos to the legendary island of Skralla, Alex must now train alongside fierce, frightening dragon children, if she is to unlock the power of her birthright.
But other dragons are rising too. Drak Midna, the greatest dragon of all, is preparing a war against the human world, and Alex has to be good enough for this fight, or we all will burn . . .
The first thing that grabbed my attention was that this is the start of a brand new series, a series with my favourite elements magic and dragons.
And what a first book in the series this turned out to be.
It was an edge of your seat rollercoaster ride, so fast paced that if I had been the main character that I would have needed a massive lay down.
The author has created a fantastic world which is so fun to live in, and the world is so detailed that you can picture it in your mind's eye and the mythical creatures are truly some of the best I have written,
. The main character Alice is so well plotted and thought out. You feel the grief she is going through after losing her dad, you feel how overwhelming she feels with life. You will definitely find yourself rooting for her. But in this book the author has made the secondary characters really interesting . In other books a lot of secondary characters are just that,characters in the background. There were some very emotional scenes that these characters had, and I was heartbroken with how life was for Erik, and I found him becoming my favourite character. And how we left him at the end of the book.There were 3 places in the book that I had to re-read because I couldn’t believe how these characters weren’t who I thought they were and what the author had made them into.
This is an exciting middle grade full of adventure and heart and I really hope the next book isn’t too long in coming.
July 4, 2025
Loved this book for middle schoolers. It is definitely a book I can see children falling in love with. Easily a book adults could read to younger children; however, the fight scene near the end might be too scary for some children. 4.5 ⭐️ for me.
Thank you @NetGalley for an early copy of this book.
Thank you @NetGalley for an early copy of this book.
August 29, 2025
Alex Evans (12) runs from her controlling mother into the forest she shared with her dad who died two years ago, andi n her need to expell all the negativity in her, she breathes fire and burns down their favored tree. Oliphos, an ancient dragon, appears, explaining that Alex is a dragon in human form and he will take her to Skralla where she can learn to be what, and who, she was meant to be. Her mother, surprisingly, lets her go, and that stop to meet Dr. Archibald P. Puppinsworth - whose thoughts on dragons address the 'dear reader' directly throughout the book - and discover Alex might be able to help find a missing dragon artifact that Drak Midna, the oldest, largest dragon, wants more than anything else. In Skralla., she joins the other dragonlings in their school and abodes, taking time to settle in as her mother kept her under such constant control she can't be wild - or turn into a dragon. She meets human, orphan Erik who works with the fairy and giant to care for the dragonlings, and Alex begins to learn as much form him as she is the others, even her dragonmates that become her friends. Her family's secret history begins to unravel, her control begins to turn, and she begins to discover herself and her inner dragon along the path in this dynamic series opener. Laugher helps cut through the grief and fear while the conflicts between dragon and human kind weave into the plot with the threat of Drak Midna never scurrying fully into the shadows.
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