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Dragon Dreamer #1
The Dragon Dreamer
A wounded dragon and an undersea misfit. Dive into a new fantasy world! Stand-alone book I of the award-winning Dragon Dreamer series. For young adults 9 to 99.
Bullied as a worthless dreamer, Arak flies away on a dangerous quest to prove himself. The young dragon crashes at sea, suffering serious injuries and the loss of his trance-stone. A fearless, shape-shifting octopus named Scree heals him, and an unexpected friendship begins.
Arak returns to the Winter Festival, where dragons carve glaciers with fire and toss lightning bolts in the clouds. But a deadly illness stalks the clan. Then an undersea volcano erupts, which triggers a towering tsunami and a deadly chain of events. How can Arak turn his dangerous dream into a solid plan to save the dragons?
Science Fantasy with dragons, an undersea world, and unexpected friendship. Won Book of the Year (IAN) First Place Award for Best FIRST NOVEL, Finalist for Best SCIENCE FICTION and for Best FANTASY.
AMAZON: https://www.amazon.com/ebook/dp/B00K9...
e-BOOKS: https://books2read.com/u/bOw0Jb
Bullied as a worthless dreamer, Arak flies away on a dangerous quest to prove himself. The young dragon crashes at sea, suffering serious injuries and the loss of his trance-stone. A fearless, shape-shifting octopus named Scree heals him, and an unexpected friendship begins.
Arak returns to the Winter Festival, where dragons carve glaciers with fire and toss lightning bolts in the clouds. But a deadly illness stalks the clan. Then an undersea volcano erupts, which triggers a towering tsunami and a deadly chain of events. How can Arak turn his dangerous dream into a solid plan to save the dragons?
Science Fantasy with dragons, an undersea world, and unexpected friendship. Won Book of the Year (IAN) First Place Award for Best FIRST NOVEL, Finalist for Best SCIENCE FICTION and for Best FANTASY.
AMAZON: https://www.amazon.com/ebook/dp/B00K9...
e-BOOKS: https://books2read.com/u/bOw0Jb
252 pages, Paperback
First published April 24, 2014
68 people are currently reading
3775 people want to read
About the author
J.S. Burke
8 books508 followersJ. S. Burke has worked as an author, artist, and marine biologist, studying creatures of the dark abyss and diving on coral reefs. Her stories blend imagination with real science and author experiences. The DRAGON DREAMER series grew from years at sea, a fascination with clever, alien octopuses, and a love of dragons: Science Fantasy for young adults 9 to 99.
BOOK LISTS: https://www.goodreads.com/list/book/2...
NEW BOOK: SUNSET DRAGONS https://www.amazon.com/Sunset-Dragons...
*DRAGON THUNDER won NABE Pinnacle Best Science Fantasy.
*DRAGON LIGHTNING won NABE Pinnacle Best Science Fantasy and IAN Best Science Fiction. It's also an IAN Finalist for Best Fantasy and Best Young Adult book.
*THE DRAGON DREAMER won IAN Best First Novel. It's also an IAN Finalist for Best Science Fiction and Best Fantasy.
*FANTASY SNOWFLAKES COLORING BOOKS I and II have wildlife mandalas made from Narwhals, Dragons, Dolphins, Mermaids, more.
*WINTER'S CHILD is an original, illustrated, upbeat fairytale.
*Favorite books include Lord of the Rings, Dune, Watership Down, The Crystal Cave, Silent Spring, and many more!
NOOK: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-d...
KOBO: http://store.kobobooks.com/en-US/eboo...
ITunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/id11...
BOOK LISTS: https://www.goodreads.com/list/book/2...
NEW BOOK: SUNSET DRAGONS https://www.amazon.com/Sunset-Dragons...
*DRAGON THUNDER won NABE Pinnacle Best Science Fantasy.
*DRAGON LIGHTNING won NABE Pinnacle Best Science Fantasy and IAN Best Science Fiction. It's also an IAN Finalist for Best Fantasy and Best Young Adult book.
*THE DRAGON DREAMER won IAN Best First Novel. It's also an IAN Finalist for Best Science Fiction and Best Fantasy.
*FANTASY SNOWFLAKES COLORING BOOKS I and II have wildlife mandalas made from Narwhals, Dragons, Dolphins, Mermaids, more.
*WINTER'S CHILD is an original, illustrated, upbeat fairytale.
*Favorite books include Lord of the Rings, Dune, Watership Down, The Crystal Cave, Silent Spring, and many more!
NOOK: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-d...
KOBO: http://store.kobobooks.com/en-US/eboo...
ITunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/id11...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 164 reviews
June 10, 2014
This is an extremely unique book that combines action and adventure with a deep understanding of real ocean life and a highly imagined dragon world. It is both fascinating and educational. For anyone who has ever been curious about the mysteries of the depths or enchanted with dragons, this book will engage you. If you are drawn to both, the Dragon Dreamer will become your favorite book ever.
January 14, 2019
A dying dragon, an undersea misfit, and a dangerous dream.
Arak is bullied as a worthless dreamer. Determined to prove himself, the young dragon leaves on a quest, flies far over the sea, and crashes. Badly wounded, he faces death. A fearless, shape-shifter octopus named Scree finds and heals him, and an unexpected friendship begins.
Arak returns to the Winter Festival, where dragons carve glaciers with fire and toss lightning bolts in the clouds. But a deadly illness stalks the dragon clan. Then an undersea volcano erupts, which triggers a towering tsunami and a deadly chain of events. Dragons and their undersea friends are dying. How can Arak use his unique gifts to save the dragons?
The Dragon Dreamer is science fantasy adventure with dragons and an undersea world, for young adults 9 to 99.
February 9, 2015
J.S. Burke has managed, and with great success, to build a world that young readers will find a sheer delight to explore! While reading this novel I shared passages with my ten year old daughter and she was thrilled with the surprising friendship between Arak the dragon and Scree the octopus.
Both characters have so much to offer! Arak is a dreamer who deals with his own self-doubt as well as a bullying dragon, his first brush with love, and his overwhelming desire to help his community of dragons find a viable food source. Scree is a healer and, unlike her mate Orm and the other octopi, she seeks adventure and is always guided by the desire to help and do what is right.
Though they are different, Arak and Scree look past their skin, scales, teeth, legs, and claws in order to discover more about each other and the world they each come from. Burke is wonderfully descriptive in her writing and both characters are very believable in how she depicts them. It is a fantasy for readers of all ages and I highly recommend it! The Dragon Dreamer is a unique adventure for the young and the young at heart!
Both characters have so much to offer! Arak is a dreamer who deals with his own self-doubt as well as a bullying dragon, his first brush with love, and his overwhelming desire to help his community of dragons find a viable food source. Scree is a healer and, unlike her mate Orm and the other octopi, she seeks adventure and is always guided by the desire to help and do what is right.
Though they are different, Arak and Scree look past their skin, scales, teeth, legs, and claws in order to discover more about each other and the world they each come from. Burke is wonderfully descriptive in her writing and both characters are very believable in how she depicts them. It is a fantasy for readers of all ages and I highly recommend it! The Dragon Dreamer is a unique adventure for the young and the young at heart!
October 29, 2023
Need more stars.
When I saw this book had over 50 reviews and a 4.9 rating I was skeptical. After reading The Dragon Dreamer I now know why. It only has a 4.9 rating because we can't give it 6 stars. Yes, it's that good.
There are too many authors who seem to see how 'dark' they can be. Or how many bad choices they can have their characters make and still have them look good at the end.
This is a story that shows the positive. The main characters have their flaws but unlike so many times where the character routinely makes bad choices, our two main characters are intelligent and positive ... well, except for the obligatory relationship thing. Besides the overall good science, the part I liked best was the language of the octopi.
This is the kind of intelligent book that makes reading fun for this 63 year old despite the YA label.
When I saw this book had over 50 reviews and a 4.9 rating I was skeptical. After reading The Dragon Dreamer I now know why. It only has a 4.9 rating because we can't give it 6 stars. Yes, it's that good.
There are too many authors who seem to see how 'dark' they can be. Or how many bad choices they can have their characters make and still have them look good at the end.
This is a story that shows the positive. The main characters have their flaws but unlike so many times where the character routinely makes bad choices, our two main characters are intelligent and positive ... well, except for the obligatory relationship thing. Besides the overall good science, the part I liked best was the language of the octopi.
This is the kind of intelligent book that makes reading fun for this 63 year old despite the YA label.
October 1, 2021
I love YA and I also love epic fantasy. This was a fabulous read and I have definitely downloaded book two!! You guys know I love fantasy but it is one of the things I just haven’t figured out how to aggressively review yet. Just understand that I love it and I need more 🥰😍!!
Happy reading everyone !!
Happy reading everyone !!
December 4, 2025
This book is for sure one of my most favorites. I never really considered the fact that octopuses can be such intelligent creatures and I NEVER knew they can change shape, form heck even mimic other animals. This book truly made me appreciate these fascinating beings more. I absolutely adored the relationship between Octopuses and Dragons & I had a delightful time seeing it grow. This book was so unique to me and I enjoyed it the whole time I read it. Cannot wait to see more adventures of Scree & Arak !!!
September 8, 2014
I won this on GoodReads.
“The Dragon Dreamer” is a lovely story about using the gifts you were born with and how people can still be good friends even if they look different then you. This is designed for a younger reader (middle school? maybe younger) with a glossary in the back for words they may not know. Arak is a young dragon with a talent to mind-trance. The other young dragons tease him and call him a “dreamer”. After an accident he is injured and is nursed back to health by something he had never imagined, a young healer named Scree, who happens to be an octopus. And this, as they say, was the beginning of a wonderful friendship.
“The Dragon Dreamer” is a lovely story about using the gifts you were born with and how people can still be good friends even if they look different then you. This is designed for a younger reader (middle school? maybe younger) with a glossary in the back for words they may not know. Arak is a young dragon with a talent to mind-trance. The other young dragons tease him and call him a “dreamer”. After an accident he is injured and is nursed back to health by something he had never imagined, a young healer named Scree, who happens to be an octopus. And this, as they say, was the beginning of a wonderful friendship.
October 29, 2017
This was a cute and in many ways surprising tale. Who would have thought about story of a friendship between a dragon and an octopus would be so incredibly interesting? Well, obviously, the author did, because she did a fantastic job of weaving a fanciful story with actual facts about 0ctopi and other marine life. I adored all the characters.
May 21, 2015
A beautiful story - an engaging and original concept
The Dragon Dreamer by J. S. Burke is definitely NOT just another dragon story. As I began to read, I was confused about how a dragon and an octopus could become friends. By the end of the first chapter, I had taken the bait and was hooked. The storyline is creative and original, a fantasy tale with similarities to real life. The book is a beautiful story, a fun, whimsical read and a smart read all in one, not easy to accomplish. It is appropriate for all ages, including adults.
Arak is a young dragon who feels different from the rest of his clan and is teased for his unique gift. Through an accident, Arak encounters Scree, a wise and open-minded octopus, and the healer for her pod. They learn to communicate with body and sign language and become friends, and soon clan and pod are interacting, trading goods, exchanging stories, learning about another culture, and building many more friendships. The pod, clan and individuals of each experience various issues. First, as mentioned, are Arak’s feelings about being different, and how he handles the teasing and bullying from other dragons. Second are the interactions between two very different cultures (“sky swimmers” vs. ocean dwellers) who learn that they aren’t so different at all. Additionally, Arak has begun to develop feelings for Zarina, someone he’s always been friends with but who is now a dragon-lady. I was pleased to see this in the book, as I feel that it is beneficial to be friends before growing a relationship.
Each culture has their issues to contend with at home. The dragons suffer a severe health issue and Arak is desperate to find a solution. The octopi pod endure an attack which provides Scree with a unique opportunity to put her talents and personality to an all new, extremely dangerous, test.
Other lovely themes grace the novel, but I don’t want to reveal all to other readers. The adventures are exciting and keep you turning the page. The book is very well written. The author is a marine biologist and includes actual characteristics of octopi and other creatures of the ocean. She creates wonderful attributes for the dragon clan that seem incredibly realistic. I hope there will be a sequel, because I would love to read more.
I loved it. As I read I ran across several quotes that I particularly like. Most children I know age 8 and up could read it without any trouble, and certainly 10 and up. If a reader has any trouble with vocabulary, there is a glossary in the back, which also includes information about the sea life. If it is above the child’s reading level, it would be a wonderful book to read to your child. I also agree with other reviewers who suggest that this would make a great movie. It is a new and original concept with the opportunity to produce some beautiful imagery, scenery and action. Disney? DreamWorks? I hope you’re paying attention, because I would love to see this in the movie theater.
The Dragon Dreamer by J. S. Burke is definitely NOT just another dragon story. As I began to read, I was confused about how a dragon and an octopus could become friends. By the end of the first chapter, I had taken the bait and was hooked. The storyline is creative and original, a fantasy tale with similarities to real life. The book is a beautiful story, a fun, whimsical read and a smart read all in one, not easy to accomplish. It is appropriate for all ages, including adults.
Arak is a young dragon who feels different from the rest of his clan and is teased for his unique gift. Through an accident, Arak encounters Scree, a wise and open-minded octopus, and the healer for her pod. They learn to communicate with body and sign language and become friends, and soon clan and pod are interacting, trading goods, exchanging stories, learning about another culture, and building many more friendships. The pod, clan and individuals of each experience various issues. First, as mentioned, are Arak’s feelings about being different, and how he handles the teasing and bullying from other dragons. Second are the interactions between two very different cultures (“sky swimmers” vs. ocean dwellers) who learn that they aren’t so different at all. Additionally, Arak has begun to develop feelings for Zarina, someone he’s always been friends with but who is now a dragon-lady. I was pleased to see this in the book, as I feel that it is beneficial to be friends before growing a relationship.
Each culture has their issues to contend with at home. The dragons suffer a severe health issue and Arak is desperate to find a solution. The octopi pod endure an attack which provides Scree with a unique opportunity to put her talents and personality to an all new, extremely dangerous, test.
Other lovely themes grace the novel, but I don’t want to reveal all to other readers. The adventures are exciting and keep you turning the page. The book is very well written. The author is a marine biologist and includes actual characteristics of octopi and other creatures of the ocean. She creates wonderful attributes for the dragon clan that seem incredibly realistic. I hope there will be a sequel, because I would love to read more.
I loved it. As I read I ran across several quotes that I particularly like. Most children I know age 8 and up could read it without any trouble, and certainly 10 and up. If a reader has any trouble with vocabulary, there is a glossary in the back, which also includes information about the sea life. If it is above the child’s reading level, it would be a wonderful book to read to your child. I also agree with other reviewers who suggest that this would make a great movie. It is a new and original concept with the opportunity to produce some beautiful imagery, scenery and action. Disney? DreamWorks? I hope you’re paying attention, because I would love to see this in the movie theater.
September 7, 2025
Good world building and species lore, the picture comes alive vividly even if now and then some interrogations linger (I kept wondering about the signing language, given the totally different body setups of octopii and dragons), but the idea is definitely worth exploring.
The characters are sympathetic but not as thrilling as they could be, perhaps more backstory on Arak and more tension would have helped, but I suppose the tension part has also been limited to fit for younger audiences.
Overall, a nice adventure tale with a rich world.
Edit (after book 2) : more backstory is added main characters, that gives more substance to their relationships. So far, a good comfort read with unusual and well built setting.
The characters are sympathetic but not as thrilling as they could be, perhaps more backstory on Arak and more tension would have helped, but I suppose the tension part has also been limited to fit for younger audiences.
Overall, a nice adventure tale with a rich world.
Edit (after book 2) : more backstory is added main characters, that gives more substance to their relationships. So far, a good comfort read with unusual and well built setting.
July 21, 2025
Everything worth doing starts with a dream.
After Arak, a young misfit of a dragon crashlands during his first solo flight, a strange female part of a race never seen before by dragonkind saves his life. This race being… A pod of octopus!
Scree, a healer, despite communicating very differently than our dragon hero, makes quick friends with Arak as she brings him back to health, it’s there that a never-seen-before bond is formed between the two races, when the two of them meet to trade resources and stories. What starts as a diplomatic relationship between clans for the purpose of trading becomes an unbreakable friendship as Arak and the rest of his clan come together with octopi for the first time, claw and tentacle.
Despite a few typos and quite a few issues with formatting, I really really enjoyed this book. I never thought I’d see the day I read a book about talking octopuses, nor did I ever imagine reading a book about an octopus becoming friends with a dragon (I don’t even think I read this description for this book when I bought it), but well, it happened, and it’s awesome. Arak’s adventure as he finds his place in his clan along with his new tentacled friends were charming and sweet. I guarantee you will love every moment big and small as he transitions from a weirdo who is teased by everyone to a respected, intelligent fellow responsible for great changes of dragon kind, in this cozy fantasy adventure that starts and ends in peace.
After Arak, a young misfit of a dragon crashlands during his first solo flight, a strange female part of a race never seen before by dragonkind saves his life. This race being… A pod of octopus!
Scree, a healer, despite communicating very differently than our dragon hero, makes quick friends with Arak as she brings him back to health, it’s there that a never-seen-before bond is formed between the two races, when the two of them meet to trade resources and stories. What starts as a diplomatic relationship between clans for the purpose of trading becomes an unbreakable friendship as Arak and the rest of his clan come together with octopi for the first time, claw and tentacle.
Despite a few typos and quite a few issues with formatting, I really really enjoyed this book. I never thought I’d see the day I read a book about talking octopuses, nor did I ever imagine reading a book about an octopus becoming friends with a dragon (I don’t even think I read this description for this book when I bought it), but well, it happened, and it’s awesome. Arak’s adventure as he finds his place in his clan along with his new tentacled friends were charming and sweet. I guarantee you will love every moment big and small as he transitions from a weirdo who is teased by everyone to a respected, intelligent fellow responsible for great changes of dragon kind, in this cozy fantasy adventure that starts and ends in peace.
March 8, 2024
Glorious descriptions it's one of the best works I have ever read. It reminds me of some of those wonderful books of the past that no one else but the author could have written and here is another.
June 16, 2023
A wonderful fantasy for readers of all ages. I'm and "old lady" and love it and so does my 5 year old granddaughter. Full of imagery, imagination and facts about the world under water. I loved this book and highly recommend it for the young, or young at heart.
August 21, 2017
4.5 Stars
It's a fantastic story about dragons, octopi, and giant squids. Definitely an interesting read. Story is about a dragon 'Dreamer' who ends up meeting an octopus quite by accident, but from there they become good friends. Soon they're learning about each other's way of life, likes, and dislikes. And then they decide that both their communities will benefit from trade. Hence, their friendship grows and becomes stronger each day. They face many challenges, and adventures, since both are curious about the world they live in. I think it's a beautiful story. The way author has described the dragon world, as well as the under-water world is just magnificent. I loved this adorable and full of adventure tale of mythical beings and real ones too. ;)
It's a fantastic story about dragons, octopi, and giant squids. Definitely an interesting read. Story is about a dragon 'Dreamer' who ends up meeting an octopus quite by accident, but from there they become good friends. Soon they're learning about each other's way of life, likes, and dislikes. And then they decide that both their communities will benefit from trade. Hence, their friendship grows and becomes stronger each day. They face many challenges, and adventures, since both are curious about the world they live in. I think it's a beautiful story. The way author has described the dragon world, as well as the under-water world is just magnificent. I loved this adorable and full of adventure tale of mythical beings and real ones too. ;)
March 14, 2017
I enjoy reading authors from Georgia and added The Dragon Dreamer by J S Burke to my TBR not long ago. Read on to discover my thoughts!
Synopsis (from the author): The Dragon Dreamer is a fast-paced adventure with flying dragons, an undersea world, and an unlikely friendship. It's a science fantasy layered for readers age 9 to 99.
Arak is a misfit dragon called "Dreamer". Determined to prove himself he leaves on a dangerous quest, is caught in a fierce sea-storm, and crashes on ice. Wounded and alone he faces death. Then a fearless undersea shape-shifter named Scree heals him and an unlikely friendship begins. When an undersea volcano erupts it triggers a towering tsunami and a deadly chain of events. Can Arak use his unique talents to save the dragons?
What I liked: The Dragon Dreamer was a fun read, and I learned quite a bit about octopuses, squids, and, of course, dragons. I enjoyed the way J S Burke mingled fantasy, science, and science fiction into the story. Arak, our dragon hero, persevered through bullying and teasing. Scree, the octopus, was a bold adventurer, and together they bring their respective cultures together to help one another and improve life for both. Lots to learn here!
What I didn’t like: To be honest, I really didn’t find anything to dislike in this book.
Overall impression: The Dragon Dreamer by J S Burke was a good read. Written for ages 9-99, the story is easy to follow, deals with issues many young people encounter, and showed that a positive attitude can go a long way to making life better. Well done J S Burke!
My rating: 5 Stars
Synopsis (from the author): The Dragon Dreamer is a fast-paced adventure with flying dragons, an undersea world, and an unlikely friendship. It's a science fantasy layered for readers age 9 to 99.
Arak is a misfit dragon called "Dreamer". Determined to prove himself he leaves on a dangerous quest, is caught in a fierce sea-storm, and crashes on ice. Wounded and alone he faces death. Then a fearless undersea shape-shifter named Scree heals him and an unlikely friendship begins. When an undersea volcano erupts it triggers a towering tsunami and a deadly chain of events. Can Arak use his unique talents to save the dragons?
What I liked: The Dragon Dreamer was a fun read, and I learned quite a bit about octopuses, squids, and, of course, dragons. I enjoyed the way J S Burke mingled fantasy, science, and science fiction into the story. Arak, our dragon hero, persevered through bullying and teasing. Scree, the octopus, was a bold adventurer, and together they bring their respective cultures together to help one another and improve life for both. Lots to learn here!
What I didn’t like: To be honest, I really didn’t find anything to dislike in this book.
Overall impression: The Dragon Dreamer by J S Burke was a good read. Written for ages 9-99, the story is easy to follow, deals with issues many young people encounter, and showed that a positive attitude can go a long way to making life better. Well done J S Burke!
My rating: 5 Stars
June 8, 2018
The Dragon Dreamer is a fantastic tale of adventure, intrigue and relationships revolving around two disparate cultures: Dragons and Octopi. How the dragon Arak learns to interact with the octopus Scree is both enlightening and extraordinary, but is a great example of how two diversely different communities can come together and mutually benefit each other.
The author has a magnificent grasp of sea life, and her experience and expertise shine throughout this magnificent tale. Reading The Dragon Dreamer brought to mind many of the wonderful animated feature-length movies that have come out of Disney, and I would venture to say The Dragon Dreamer is an excellent story for that venue. I hope someone takes notice of how rich and masterfully told this story is.
All in all, this is an exceptional story for the young and old alike, and I highly recommend this book for all age groups. I give this book 5 stars, and it is well deserved. I look forward to reading more from author J.S. Burke. She is someone to watch.
The author has a magnificent grasp of sea life, and her experience and expertise shine throughout this magnificent tale. Reading The Dragon Dreamer brought to mind many of the wonderful animated feature-length movies that have come out of Disney, and I would venture to say The Dragon Dreamer is an excellent story for that venue. I hope someone takes notice of how rich and masterfully told this story is.
All in all, this is an exceptional story for the young and old alike, and I highly recommend this book for all age groups. I give this book 5 stars, and it is well deserved. I look forward to reading more from author J.S. Burke. She is someone to watch.
June 5, 2016
What a wonderfully unique story! This is a very enjoyable read. I love that the octopus, Scree, is a healer since they are very intelligent creatures. She teaches Arak, a young dragon, how important it is to communicate with different creatures. Together they help their kind work and learn together. I wish that I could have read this story to my boys when they were little children. It would have been an enjoyable way to learn about life, being different and embracing it, communication, and seeing a situation through someone else's eyes. This is a great book for all ages.
January 1, 2022
This book was full of detail for the world created by the author. Have you ever thought of a dragon and Octopus being friends? Well that’s exactly what Scree (octopus) and Arak (dragon) are. These two strike up an extremely unlikely friendship when Scree finds a dying Arak and helps him heal. This is a good book for all ages and I would definitely recommend for anyone.
February 12, 2022
This book, like the children's book "Winter's Child" by the same author, is chockful of information about the natural world and sea creatures, the ocean, the sky, the earth, from the author's rich and fertile imagination and her experience as a real life marine biologist, without being pretentious or overly inclusive of information that might slow the story. The story is wonderful. It is exquisitely written. I love Scree, the healer octopus, and the dragons are portrayed in a different sense to distinguish them from the sea creatures. A lovely book. I look forward to reading the rest in the series.
September 23, 2019
Wonderful world to get lost in!
I could vividly visualize the colors described and the dragons had wonderful personalities. Their partnership with the octopuses benefited them all. I thoroughly enjoyed the whole book!
I could vividly visualize the colors described and the dragons had wonderful personalities. Their partnership with the octopuses benefited them all. I thoroughly enjoyed the whole book!
March 10, 2015
"Everything worth doing starts with a dream," says Arak, one of the main characters in J.S. Burke's wonderfully imaginative novel, "The Dragon Dreamer." On the surface, this is a fantasy book aimed at middle grade readers about a young dragon, Arak, who, after crash landing on an ice floe, is nursed back to health by an octopus healer, Scree, and the friendship that develops between them and their respective species. But it is a story that can be read on multiple levels and by multiple ages.
Although there are no mentions of humans in this book, the characters have human qualities, experience human emotions, and face human dilemmas that are easy to relate to. Arak belongs to a race of dragons that is dependent on copper for health. His clan is running dangerously low, leading to widespread illness, so he sets out (on his maiden flight, no less), to find the clan a new copper source. Arak, who is young, inexperienced, but believes in something bigger than himself, makes an unlikely yet solid fantasy hero that readers can all root for. He longs for recognition from his clan and the female dragon of his heart's desire but is scoffed at for his dreams. Scree, the brave female octopus who has dedicated her life to helping others (whether they are from the same species or not) and Orm, her research scientist mate with the dry sense of humor, round out the cast of main characters. The relationship that develops between dragons and octopi, with mutual trading of goods, information, and protection is reminiscent of how human groups form alliances. It provides a wonderfully allegorical way of introducing diplomacy with those that are outwardly different in appearance (probably something certain political leaders could benefit from reviewing).
Beneath the tale of friendship between members of different species, there are a number of other deeper themes operating below the surface: 1.) the dragons' constant and sometimes fruitless quest for copper to ensure their own survival, paralleling the neverending human search for energy, 2.) the difficulty that medical professionals face in achieving work-life balance, hinted at a number of times in the lives of Scree and Zarina (Arak's love interest), who make personal sacrifices that, at times, make them doubt their career choices, 3.) the importance of communication and mutual respect means of avoiding conflict, as evidenced by Scree's brave attempts to understand and bridge the gap with the feared giant squid, predators of octopi, 4.) the impact on an ecological system when one part is disturbed, as evidenced by the sudden aggression shown by the dragons' neighbors when their food supply dwindles, and 5.) the importance of not letting naysayers destroy one's dreams, as shown by Arak's quote above and his continual search for copper in spite of overwhelming odds.
The author's love of the sea is apparent throughout the book, as the descriptions of undersea life are vivid and easily stoke the imagination. Her love of chemistry is as well, as there are many bits that add depth to the book's world. For example, since the dragons are so short on copper, they turn to turquoise rock (which has traces of copper) as a poor substitute. There are also charming M.C. Escher-like line illustrations, generally in the shape of snowflakes made of repeating stylized versions of creatures from the book. They are sprinkled throughout and complement the story nicely. In addition, the author has a glossary at the end to help younger readers with the pronunciation and definition of some of the bigger words – all done using examples from the story, which is a nice touch.
All in all, this is an enchanting book that is not only a great adventure story but provides a nice way to begin talking about topics such as conflict between groups of people, the importance of understanding other cultures before passing judgment, and the importance of dreaming big and not giving up. Given its depth, it could easily be read and enjoyed by a young adult population as well. I'm looking forward to seeing what lies in store for Arak, Scree, and Orm in the future.
Although there are no mentions of humans in this book, the characters have human qualities, experience human emotions, and face human dilemmas that are easy to relate to. Arak belongs to a race of dragons that is dependent on copper for health. His clan is running dangerously low, leading to widespread illness, so he sets out (on his maiden flight, no less), to find the clan a new copper source. Arak, who is young, inexperienced, but believes in something bigger than himself, makes an unlikely yet solid fantasy hero that readers can all root for. He longs for recognition from his clan and the female dragon of his heart's desire but is scoffed at for his dreams. Scree, the brave female octopus who has dedicated her life to helping others (whether they are from the same species or not) and Orm, her research scientist mate with the dry sense of humor, round out the cast of main characters. The relationship that develops between dragons and octopi, with mutual trading of goods, information, and protection is reminiscent of how human groups form alliances. It provides a wonderfully allegorical way of introducing diplomacy with those that are outwardly different in appearance (probably something certain political leaders could benefit from reviewing).
Beneath the tale of friendship between members of different species, there are a number of other deeper themes operating below the surface: 1.) the dragons' constant and sometimes fruitless quest for copper to ensure their own survival, paralleling the neverending human search for energy, 2.) the difficulty that medical professionals face in achieving work-life balance, hinted at a number of times in the lives of Scree and Zarina (Arak's love interest), who make personal sacrifices that, at times, make them doubt their career choices, 3.) the importance of communication and mutual respect means of avoiding conflict, as evidenced by Scree's brave attempts to understand and bridge the gap with the feared giant squid, predators of octopi, 4.) the impact on an ecological system when one part is disturbed, as evidenced by the sudden aggression shown by the dragons' neighbors when their food supply dwindles, and 5.) the importance of not letting naysayers destroy one's dreams, as shown by Arak's quote above and his continual search for copper in spite of overwhelming odds.
The author's love of the sea is apparent throughout the book, as the descriptions of undersea life are vivid and easily stoke the imagination. Her love of chemistry is as well, as there are many bits that add depth to the book's world. For example, since the dragons are so short on copper, they turn to turquoise rock (which has traces of copper) as a poor substitute. There are also charming M.C. Escher-like line illustrations, generally in the shape of snowflakes made of repeating stylized versions of creatures from the book. They are sprinkled throughout and complement the story nicely. In addition, the author has a glossary at the end to help younger readers with the pronunciation and definition of some of the bigger words – all done using examples from the story, which is a nice touch.
All in all, this is an enchanting book that is not only a great adventure story but provides a nice way to begin talking about topics such as conflict between groups of people, the importance of understanding other cultures before passing judgment, and the importance of dreaming big and not giving up. Given its depth, it could easily be read and enjoyed by a young adult population as well. I'm looking forward to seeing what lies in store for Arak, Scree, and Orm in the future.
November 2, 2019
Connections
I was thoroughly surprised reading this book. It was a very creative way of bring science and worlds together. It was very pleasing to see the way the relationships were formed, maintained and demonstrated here. Very inventive!
I was thoroughly surprised reading this book. It was a very creative way of bring science and worlds together. It was very pleasing to see the way the relationships were formed, maintained and demonstrated here. Very inventive!
December 1, 2014
The Dragon Dreamer is a deeply imaginative fantasy about the unlikely friendship between a dragon, Arak, and an octopus, Scree. Filled with tales of trance-minds, octopus skin pictures, undersea volcanoes, shark attacks and battles with giant squid, it offers plenty to feed and inspire young imaginations. As unlikely as Arak and Scree’s friendship may be, J.S. Burke succeeds at making it completely believable.
Scree is a brave, adventurous healer with a caring, cautious mate, Orm. The contrast between these two octopi serves to deepen their characters. I really like Scree. She is smart, courageous and confident. When several dragons become severely ill from copper deficiency she simply says, “What would be would be. And then she’d fix it.” She meets Arak when she heals him after a terrible accident.
Arak is a dreamy wanderer who is made fun of for going against the grain. He is filled with self doubt. “Dragons knew storms,” the narrator tells us. “They danced with storms! Yet he’d missed the signs, and this one almost killed him.” Young readers will be able to identify with this self-doubt, and with the crush Arak has on his love interest, Zarina; his fear of Karoon, the bully; and his longing to prove to the world what he is capable of.
J.S. Burke’s prose is impeccable and has a rhythmic, lapping quality to it, much like the sea or the waving octopus arms she describes. Chapter names like “The Sea Boils” and “A Dangerous Game” heighten the suspense and make readers want to continue. The book also contains several intricate snowflake drawings which add to the mystery and beauty.
Tweens who love the sea will enjoy the novel’s setting. J.S. Burke has worked as marine biologist and her knowledge and love of the mysteries of the ocean leap from the page. Fans of the Warrior Cats series will also enjoy this book. Happy reading, and “may you surf the tangled currents of the sea forever.”
Scree is a brave, adventurous healer with a caring, cautious mate, Orm. The contrast between these two octopi serves to deepen their characters. I really like Scree. She is smart, courageous and confident. When several dragons become severely ill from copper deficiency she simply says, “What would be would be. And then she’d fix it.” She meets Arak when she heals him after a terrible accident.
Arak is a dreamy wanderer who is made fun of for going against the grain. He is filled with self doubt. “Dragons knew storms,” the narrator tells us. “They danced with storms! Yet he’d missed the signs, and this one almost killed him.” Young readers will be able to identify with this self-doubt, and with the crush Arak has on his love interest, Zarina; his fear of Karoon, the bully; and his longing to prove to the world what he is capable of.
J.S. Burke’s prose is impeccable and has a rhythmic, lapping quality to it, much like the sea or the waving octopus arms she describes. Chapter names like “The Sea Boils” and “A Dangerous Game” heighten the suspense and make readers want to continue. The book also contains several intricate snowflake drawings which add to the mystery and beauty.
Tweens who love the sea will enjoy the novel’s setting. J.S. Burke has worked as marine biologist and her knowledge and love of the mysteries of the ocean leap from the page. Fans of the Warrior Cats series will also enjoy this book. Happy reading, and “may you surf the tangled currents of the sea forever.”
March 7, 2015
An authentic and moving friendship develops between a dragon and an octopus in this beautifully crafted tale for all ages. Arak the dragon is a dreamer and adventurer. Scree the curious octopus is a healer willing to rick it all to help those in need. My 10 year-old bookworm daughter (who is quite a discerning reader and not often lavish with her praise!) says, "The story's fabulous!" and I fully agree. This is a story to dive into, literally, because there's so much more to this tale than meets the eye.
Author J. S. Burke brings the undersea world to dazzling life, using her background in marine biology to salt her world-building with just the right amount of authentic and fascinating detail. As someone who grew up beside the ocean I can attest to that! Further, she tells a gripping yarn. While the story at its surface level follows the unfolding of friendship and cooperation of a most unusual kind between two different species, there is tension well sustained throughout and wonderfully imaginative descriptions of octopus and dragon art forms and dance, accompanied by a flawless depth and growth of the main and supporting characters in the tale.
The art of this tale for me, lies in how the author brings these disparate threads together while never allowing the narrative pace to slacken. Engrossing, uplifting and superbly crafted, this book is a keeper. I cannot recommend it highly enough.
Author J. S. Burke brings the undersea world to dazzling life, using her background in marine biology to salt her world-building with just the right amount of authentic and fascinating detail. As someone who grew up beside the ocean I can attest to that! Further, she tells a gripping yarn. While the story at its surface level follows the unfolding of friendship and cooperation of a most unusual kind between two different species, there is tension well sustained throughout and wonderfully imaginative descriptions of octopus and dragon art forms and dance, accompanied by a flawless depth and growth of the main and supporting characters in the tale.
The art of this tale for me, lies in how the author brings these disparate threads together while never allowing the narrative pace to slacken. Engrossing, uplifting and superbly crafted, this book is a keeper. I cannot recommend it highly enough.
June 4, 2016
Really loved this book with its underlying message of being tolerant of others especially those who are different. It encourages us to live in peace with our fellow creatures.
A truly wonderful story for young and old alike. It is unique in that it covers many topics, such as the barriers of language between species. It shows how some creatures are united in their love of art, science and technology. Truly amazing.
Arak is a dragon who does not quite fit in with the pack. He is after all a dreamer. The other dragons mock him and call him names, they never take him serious. One day whilst out on a solo flight he is caught in a dreadful storm and crash lands upon the ice, causing himself major damage. However, thanks to a curious undersea octopus called Scree (a healer who just cannot swim away from a suffering creature) an unusual alliance is formed.
The story reminded me of how the world began, how human technology and medical advancements are occurring all the time especially when people work together. It is just that in this story it is the undersea shape-shifting octopi forming lasting bonds of friendship with their much larger dragon friends.
A highly recommended read, a truly beautiful tale.
A truly wonderful story for young and old alike. It is unique in that it covers many topics, such as the barriers of language between species. It shows how some creatures are united in their love of art, science and technology. Truly amazing.
Arak is a dragon who does not quite fit in with the pack. He is after all a dreamer. The other dragons mock him and call him names, they never take him serious. One day whilst out on a solo flight he is caught in a dreadful storm and crash lands upon the ice, causing himself major damage. However, thanks to a curious undersea octopus called Scree (a healer who just cannot swim away from a suffering creature) an unusual alliance is formed.
The story reminded me of how the world began, how human technology and medical advancements are occurring all the time especially when people work together. It is just that in this story it is the undersea shape-shifting octopi forming lasting bonds of friendship with their much larger dragon friends.
A highly recommended read, a truly beautiful tale.
September 4, 2015
AN ENCHANTING STORY
The author has created an enchanting story for all readers whether you’re a child or merely young at heart. Her style of writing is like an artist painting a picture of watercolors all blending together to create one splendid work.
The Dragon Dreamer is a charming adventure that includes a highly unlikely friendship between a wounded dragon, Arak, and his healer a lovable octopus named Scree. During the time it takes for Arak to heal, they form an unbreakable bond. Arak is labeled a dreamer by his fellow dragons and isn’t taken very seriously until a plight threatens their very existence and sets him on a quest that will change the way his peers view him from then on, but the one whose opinion means the most seems to be beyond his grasp, his beloved Zarina.
J.S. Burke, is a marine biologist and teacher whose great imagination, mixed with her knowledge of marine life has woven fantasy and fact into a tapestry so engrossing that it becomes difficult to tell where fiction ends and reality begins.
The author has created an enchanting story for all readers whether you’re a child or merely young at heart. Her style of writing is like an artist painting a picture of watercolors all blending together to create one splendid work.
The Dragon Dreamer is a charming adventure that includes a highly unlikely friendship between a wounded dragon, Arak, and his healer a lovable octopus named Scree. During the time it takes for Arak to heal, they form an unbreakable bond. Arak is labeled a dreamer by his fellow dragons and isn’t taken very seriously until a plight threatens their very existence and sets him on a quest that will change the way his peers view him from then on, but the one whose opinion means the most seems to be beyond his grasp, his beloved Zarina.
J.S. Burke, is a marine biologist and teacher whose great imagination, mixed with her knowledge of marine life has woven fantasy and fact into a tapestry so engrossing that it becomes difficult to tell where fiction ends and reality begins.
January 16, 2016
This is a beautifully woven tale about a chance meeting between an injured Dragon and an Octopus.. Arak is a dragon and known as a dreamer by his peers and picked on for his tendencies to zone out so to speak, Scree is an octopus healer who yearns for travel and adventure.
Arak crash lands on the ice while trying to find copper to save his family and friends. Scree finds him too injured to fly and in need of a healer. In the most creative of ways the author spins a tale of friendship formed by two very unlikely beings.
As the author writes about the different worlds in this story you will find yourself learning fascinating things. The writing is wonderful it flows smoothly and keeps you engaged. The characters are lovable easy to relate to.There are many lessons to be learned through these characters for both adults and children.This book was truly inspiring and will leave you smiling and wanting to read further adventures of these wonderful characters. I would recommend it highly to anyone who enjoys adventure!.
Arak crash lands on the ice while trying to find copper to save his family and friends. Scree finds him too injured to fly and in need of a healer. In the most creative of ways the author spins a tale of friendship formed by two very unlikely beings.
As the author writes about the different worlds in this story you will find yourself learning fascinating things. The writing is wonderful it flows smoothly and keeps you engaged. The characters are lovable easy to relate to.There are many lessons to be learned through these characters for both adults and children.This book was truly inspiring and will leave you smiling and wanting to read further adventures of these wonderful characters. I would recommend it highly to anyone who enjoys adventure!.
August 14, 2020
"The Dragon Dreamer" is the first novel of three by J. S. Burke. It contains beautiful descriptions of the natural marine life and the fantastic home of dragons. It's written in an exciting way, a real page turner. It is full of the culture of Octopi, dragons and giant squid and presents in a vivid, entertaining manner scientific facts. The novel is complemented by dragon, squid and octopi legends. It is a beautiful written art, the book contains inner humor and breathtakingly beautiful drawings. And is finally rounded off with a glossary.
#fantasy #dragon #octopi #squid #marinelife #book #novel #legends #beautiful #humor
#fantasy #dragon #octopi #squid #marinelife #book #novel #legends #beautiful #humor
March 21, 2017
Jenny has a wonderful story here . great for every age .Arak never quite fit in as a normal dragon, always sort of a misfit, called a dreamer .This story is of adventure , acceptance of different creatures life and death struggles and the way a few can bring about change . in an ever changing world a mix of sea creatures dragons and the struggles of the changing environments they live in make a great story to read young and old .loved it pick up a copy today
September 20, 2020
The attention to detail is astounding. This is a book full of wonder and excitement. The images the author creates in your mind are vivid and expertly crafted.
Scree (an octopus) and Aarak (A dragon) are the most unlikely of friends but when an ice storm knocks Aarak from the sky and Scree finds him their journey begins.
A beautiful, well written tale. I highly recommend this for all fantasy lovers.
Scree (an octopus) and Aarak (A dragon) are the most unlikely of friends but when an ice storm knocks Aarak from the sky and Scree finds him their journey begins.
A beautiful, well written tale. I highly recommend this for all fantasy lovers.
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