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Dragon Realm #2
Dragon Legend
The second adventure in the ROARsome DRAGON REALM series for 9+ readers! Perfect for readers looking for edge-of-your-seat adventure.
Billy Chan and his friends are not having a very relaxing summer. Their friend, Dylan, has been kidnapped by the evil Dragon of Death and it's up to them to travel through time, back to the dangerous Dragon Realm, in order to save him. Luckily they have their own dragons on side, but they'll need to collect eight magical pearls if they're to amass enough power to destroy the Dragon of Death and her followers for good. So begins an epic quest that will take them to the depths of the Frozen Wasteland and the imperial palaces of Ancient China. But can good triumph evil...?
DRAGON LEGEND is the second book in the DRAGON REALM series by Katie and Kevin Tsang, co-authors of SAM WU IS NOT AFRAID
Billy Chan and his friends are not having a very relaxing summer. Their friend, Dylan, has been kidnapped by the evil Dragon of Death and it's up to them to travel through time, back to the dangerous Dragon Realm, in order to save him. Luckily they have their own dragons on side, but they'll need to collect eight magical pearls if they're to amass enough power to destroy the Dragon of Death and her followers for good. So begins an epic quest that will take them to the depths of the Frozen Wasteland and the imperial palaces of Ancient China. But can good triumph evil...?
DRAGON LEGEND is the second book in the DRAGON REALM series by Katie and Kevin Tsang, co-authors of SAM WU IS NOT AFRAID
320 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 29, 2021
45 people are currently reading
409 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews
April 21, 2021
I didn't think this series could get any more exciting after the first book, but boy was I wrong!
Dragon Legend picks up right after the shocking events at the end of 'Dragon Mountain', and I am so glad we wasted no time getting back into the action. We follow Billy, Ling-Fei, Charlotte and Dylan as they continue their adventures with their bonded dragons, hoping to stop impending doom that the Dragon of Death promises.
What I love about this book more than anything else is the exploration of the Dragon Realm. Katie & Kevin Tsang introduce us to a whole new world that is so richly described, it made me crave a piece of it despite it only existing in pure imagination - and what imagination the authors have! There are wonderful characters to meet along the way, both good and bad, and it feels as though the world the Tsangs are building is becoming more vibrant and real.
I will always love the friendship the main characters have with one another, as well as the bonds they have with their dragons. Exploring their powers and learning a bit more about each character is such a treat in such an action-packed and adventurous sequel. There were moments where I was so unsure of how the characters would get out of the seemingly-impossible situation, and I was always pleasantly surprised by the outcomes.
And AGAIN we have a killer ending!! I didn't think we would possibly get more cliffhangers after the previous book, but the final few chapters felt like being stood on by Tank or something. It builds to what promises to be an extremely exciting third book in the series and I'm more impatient than ever to see what happens next.
Dragon Legend picks up right after the shocking events at the end of 'Dragon Mountain', and I am so glad we wasted no time getting back into the action. We follow Billy, Ling-Fei, Charlotte and Dylan as they continue their adventures with their bonded dragons, hoping to stop impending doom that the Dragon of Death promises.
What I love about this book more than anything else is the exploration of the Dragon Realm. Katie & Kevin Tsang introduce us to a whole new world that is so richly described, it made me crave a piece of it despite it only existing in pure imagination - and what imagination the authors have! There are wonderful characters to meet along the way, both good and bad, and it feels as though the world the Tsangs are building is becoming more vibrant and real.
I will always love the friendship the main characters have with one another, as well as the bonds they have with their dragons. Exploring their powers and learning a bit more about each character is such a treat in such an action-packed and adventurous sequel. There were moments where I was so unsure of how the characters would get out of the seemingly-impossible situation, and I was always pleasantly surprised by the outcomes.
And AGAIN we have a killer ending!! I didn't think we would possibly get more cliffhangers after the previous book, but the final few chapters felt like being stood on by Tank or something. It builds to what promises to be an extremely exciting third book in the series and I'm more impatient than ever to see what happens next.
July 1, 2021
Best book ever
December 27, 2023
It's truly a crime that I waited until now to actually start reading this series because I'm having a really fun time! Much like the previous book, readers are treated to adventure, action, shenanigans, mayhem and magic alongside Billy, his friends and their dragons. I liked getting to spend more time around these characters (who I'm really enjoying, though admittedly Buttons is probably my favorite), and seeing how this chapter in their story played out (even when it made me upset) and how their bonds continue to grow and reshape themselves the more time they all spend together. It was definitely another story that kept me entertained as I listened, and I look forward to what comes next for these kids!
January 18, 2022
A great sequel to a rollicking adventure. This fantasy world is great. If you like dragons, this one is for you.
April 14, 2021
I received an eARC from the publishers through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. It has not affected my opinions.
The second book in the Dragon Realm series, DRAGON LEGEND is an action packed ride aimed at children on the lower end of MG.
With a missing friend, a big theme of this book is working as a group and trusting one another. From gaining "power boosts" when working to protect one another, to conversations about wanting to trust the boy, JJ, they've ended up with instead of Dylan.
Unlike the first book, I wasn't expecting it to be set in our world, but in the portal fantasy realm of dragons (hence the series title, shhhh, I don't always cotton on to these things...) I liked that the kids, mainly Billy (as he's the main character and so we get a glimpse into his private thoughts and conversations) were missing their parents and talking about wanting to see them. Often, parents can get forgotten in all age ranges of children's fiction (if they're not dead, because most children's hero/ines seem to be orphans), and so to see these kids longing for their family shows a happy, loving relationship we often don't get to read about.
We go deeper into the world this time, to a frozen land, and transparent sea, and a sea of blood (ick, yuck, I'm squeamish and that setting was *shivers like a big blob of jelly*). It was fun to see the authors stretch their creative muscles to bring a range of new landscapes to life, differentiating this book from the last. PLUS, we go back in time to Ancient China and the Forbidden City!
The promo around this series seems to be saying it's for readers 9+, and yes, every child is different, but the 9+ year olds I know found this series .too young for them. It's a very easy to read story, and with more simplistic story lines and themes than some other books sold as MG. It's the 7-8 year olds who have been enjoying this series more. If you're looking for kids at that younger end of MG, then I highly recommend this series.
The third book, DRAGON CITY, comes out in September. I somewhat dread what the authors' deadlines must be like to churn these books out in 6 monthly increments, but on the other hand I am glad I get to continue the story sooner! It ends of quite the cliffhanger...
The second book in the Dragon Realm series, DRAGON LEGEND is an action packed ride aimed at children on the lower end of MG.
With a missing friend, a big theme of this book is working as a group and trusting one another. From gaining "power boosts" when working to protect one another, to conversations about wanting to trust the boy, JJ, they've ended up with instead of Dylan.
Unlike the first book, I wasn't expecting it to be set in our world, but in the portal fantasy realm of dragons (hence the series title, shhhh, I don't always cotton on to these things...) I liked that the kids, mainly Billy (as he's the main character and so we get a glimpse into his private thoughts and conversations) were missing their parents and talking about wanting to see them. Often, parents can get forgotten in all age ranges of children's fiction (if they're not dead, because most children's hero/ines seem to be orphans), and so to see these kids longing for their family shows a happy, loving relationship we often don't get to read about.
We go deeper into the world this time, to a frozen land, and transparent sea, and a sea of blood (ick, yuck, I'm squeamish and that setting was *shivers like a big blob of jelly*). It was fun to see the authors stretch their creative muscles to bring a range of new landscapes to life, differentiating this book from the last. PLUS, we go back in time to Ancient China and the Forbidden City!
The promo around this series seems to be saying it's for readers 9+, and yes, every child is different, but the 9+ year olds I know found this series .too young for them. It's a very easy to read story, and with more simplistic story lines and themes than some other books sold as MG. It's the 7-8 year olds who have been enjoying this series more. If you're looking for kids at that younger end of MG, then I highly recommend this series.
The third book, DRAGON CITY, comes out in September. I somewhat dread what the authors' deadlines must be like to churn these books out in 6 monthly increments, but on the other hand I am glad I get to continue the story sooner! It ends of quite the cliffhanger...
January 4, 2022
review/rant (i don't even know)//dragon legend:
this book has kept me company in possibly one of the worst times in my life, and for that its sweet little characters would be close to my heart and with me for a long time. i didn't know middle-grade fantasy would provide such a perfect source of escape until i read this beautiful book with such beautiful characters and ahh i loved it. it's already making me nostalgic. even though i might've missed out on the prequel and that story altogether, i don't regret reading this one, because the authors did a commendable job at making it read like a standalone, in case the reader, like myself, hasn't read the prequel already.
i loved the diversity in it, but i would've loved to see some bipoc representation too.
and that ending. that friggin ending! it left me open-mouthed (literally, not metaphorically) a good while because i was so heckin' shocked. i was like, what on earth...? it ended on the worst cliffhanger probably ever. i really really hope i get to read the next book in the series because i hate cliffhangers, and this one left me not even able to guess my own version of what happens next. no. it left me with all sorts of itching questions and oh the absolute NEED to know what happens next with this beautiful group of friends, ugh. but i love!
ps: i don't rate books except when i really have to (read on goodreads) but i think this one might be a solid 5-star, which i'm never generous enough for.
pps: so so thankful to @mtmctours (on instagram) for including me on the tour for this book some while back and providing me a copy in return. ♡
this book has kept me company in possibly one of the worst times in my life, and for that its sweet little characters would be close to my heart and with me for a long time. i didn't know middle-grade fantasy would provide such a perfect source of escape until i read this beautiful book with such beautiful characters and ahh i loved it. it's already making me nostalgic. even though i might've missed out on the prequel and that story altogether, i don't regret reading this one, because the authors did a commendable job at making it read like a standalone, in case the reader, like myself, hasn't read the prequel already.
i loved the diversity in it, but i would've loved to see some bipoc representation too.
and that ending. that friggin ending! it left me open-mouthed (literally, not metaphorically) a good while because i was so heckin' shocked. i was like, what on earth...? it ended on the worst cliffhanger probably ever. i really really hope i get to read the next book in the series because i hate cliffhangers, and this one left me not even able to guess my own version of what happens next. no. it left me with all sorts of itching questions and oh the absolute NEED to know what happens next with this beautiful group of friends, ugh. but i love!
ps: i don't rate books except when i really have to (read on goodreads) but i think this one might be a solid 5-star, which i'm never generous enough for.
pps: so so thankful to @mtmctours (on instagram) for including me on the tour for this book some while back and providing me a copy in return. ♡
February 5, 2022
J'ai passé un chouette moment au côté de Billy et ses compagnons, mais comme pour le premier, je ne sais pas si je lirai la suite. L'histoire a beau être divertissante et agréable à lire, je trouve que ça manque un peu de profondeur (pas forcément de nuances, puisqu'elles apparaissent dans ce second tome). Bref un jeunesse vraiment dynamique et plaisant à lire dans tous les cas :).
April 14, 2021
I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley and Simon and Schuster in exchange for an honest review. In this instalment, we follow the children and their dragons into the Dragon Realm as they search for Dylan and the Dragon of Death. Their search leads them on a quest to collect all 8 of the magic pearls and prevent them from falling into the possession of the Dragon of Death and her followers.
I was quite disappointed in book 1 of this series, but a lot of other people seemed to enjoy it, so I decided to give this series another go. Unfortunately, I didn't like this book anymore than book 1, so I don't think this series is for me.
To start with the positives, there were some aspects that I thought had potential.
1) Throughout the story, there are hints that Billy is suffering from homesickness, really missing his family and being concerned about what might happen to them if his mission fails. I was looking forward to seeing this explored in more depth and for these feeling to built into something that would lead to actions or consequences in the plot, but so far this has not been the case.
2) There was some intrigue in the plot and the tension the unexpected ended created did make me interested to know what will happen next.
3) I liked getting to see the exploration of more of the characters talents and how these were used to solve challenges that the characters faced.
4) There was more humour between members of the group, which I felt had been missing in book 1. This made them feel more like a genuine group of friends who had history together.
However, there were several things that I didn't like.
1) It still really bugs me that everyone has to have their say on the situation, even if it is just to repeat what the 4 characters before them have already said. This repetition really slowed the pace of the story for me and I found myself getting annoyed with characters as I felt like I already knew what they would say before they said it. About halfway through, I had a realisation that this structure felt similar in tone to picture book stories where each character has a phrase that they repeat so the reader is able to anticipate what will come next. I wondered if the reason for having all the characters repeat the same sentiment one after another was for the enjoyment of younger children, so they could catch on to the rhythms. However, one of my later points contradicts this as I really don’t think this story is for younger children.
2) A similar point to the one above is that everyone agrees/is too nice all of the time. Obviously, the bad/evil characters disagree with and act contrary to the good ones. However, in the group of ‘good’ characters when someone suggests something, they either all agree straight away or someone worries for a moment and then is convinced. I wanted the stakes to be higher, for characters to have conflict in both wanting to do the right thing but in different ways as I think this would have given me more character development. At the moment, the differences I perceive between the characters have more to do with their talents than their personalities. Yes some are louder, some are quieter, some are braver, some are more hesitant, but they all end up acting in the same way so these differing personalities have minimal weight.
3) Now we reach the point I alluded to earlier about being unsure who this book is aimed at. As I stated previously, the simplistic nature of its plot and character development led me to believe it might be intended for a younger audience (thinking 7 – 9 year olds). However, the final battle contained some quite graphic violence that I’m more used to seeing in older MG/younger YA books aimed at 12 – 14 year olds. A man is burned alive and you are not just told that this has happened, the book describes him screaming and the smell of charred skin. Then, another character has their life force sucked out of them and the scene is described as their flesh bubbling like insects crawling around underneath it, them scratching their eyes, writhing in pain and looking like they’re being eaten from the inside out. Another point to note is that these characters are not the bad guys, they are just innocent bystanders which makes the level of violence even more scary.
I know there are some children who enjoy being grossed out and love a bit of horror, so I’m not saying there isn’t an audience for this. However, from the tone set by the first book and the majority of this one, that was not the case here. Prior to these scenes, the books had let me to believe they were fantasy adventures involving dragons, threat of evil taking over and mild peril for the characters but nothing on this scale. Now I’m not sure who I’d recommend them to.
4) Finally, I still want more Chinese culture and mythology from these books. In the finale, we do see some recognisable Chinese locations and I hope there are more scenes like these. However, for much of the book they are just in generic fantasy locations and with creatures that to my knowledge (apart from the dragons) are not specific to Chinese mythology.
Overall, I do want to know what happens next in the plot, but the writing style is definitely not to my taste.
I was quite disappointed in book 1 of this series, but a lot of other people seemed to enjoy it, so I decided to give this series another go. Unfortunately, I didn't like this book anymore than book 1, so I don't think this series is for me.
To start with the positives, there were some aspects that I thought had potential.
1) Throughout the story, there are hints that Billy is suffering from homesickness, really missing his family and being concerned about what might happen to them if his mission fails. I was looking forward to seeing this explored in more depth and for these feeling to built into something that would lead to actions or consequences in the plot, but so far this has not been the case.
2) There was some intrigue in the plot and the tension the unexpected ended created did make me interested to know what will happen next.
3) I liked getting to see the exploration of more of the characters talents and how these were used to solve challenges that the characters faced.
4) There was more humour between members of the group, which I felt had been missing in book 1. This made them feel more like a genuine group of friends who had history together.
However, there were several things that I didn't like.
1) It still really bugs me that everyone has to have their say on the situation, even if it is just to repeat what the 4 characters before them have already said. This repetition really slowed the pace of the story for me and I found myself getting annoyed with characters as I felt like I already knew what they would say before they said it. About halfway through, I had a realisation that this structure felt similar in tone to picture book stories where each character has a phrase that they repeat so the reader is able to anticipate what will come next. I wondered if the reason for having all the characters repeat the same sentiment one after another was for the enjoyment of younger children, so they could catch on to the rhythms. However, one of my later points contradicts this as I really don’t think this story is for younger children.
2) A similar point to the one above is that everyone agrees/is too nice all of the time. Obviously, the bad/evil characters disagree with and act contrary to the good ones. However, in the group of ‘good’ characters when someone suggests something, they either all agree straight away or someone worries for a moment and then is convinced. I wanted the stakes to be higher, for characters to have conflict in both wanting to do the right thing but in different ways as I think this would have given me more character development. At the moment, the differences I perceive between the characters have more to do with their talents than their personalities. Yes some are louder, some are quieter, some are braver, some are more hesitant, but they all end up acting in the same way so these differing personalities have minimal weight.
3) Now we reach the point I alluded to earlier about being unsure who this book is aimed at. As I stated previously, the simplistic nature of its plot and character development led me to believe it might be intended for a younger audience (thinking 7 – 9 year olds). However, the final battle contained some quite graphic violence that I’m more used to seeing in older MG/younger YA books aimed at 12 – 14 year olds. A man is burned alive and you are not just told that this has happened, the book describes him screaming and the smell of charred skin. Then, another character has their life force sucked out of them and the scene is described as their flesh bubbling like insects crawling around underneath it, them scratching their eyes, writhing in pain and looking like they’re being eaten from the inside out. Another point to note is that these characters are not the bad guys, they are just innocent bystanders which makes the level of violence even more scary.
I know there are some children who enjoy being grossed out and love a bit of horror, so I’m not saying there isn’t an audience for this. However, from the tone set by the first book and the majority of this one, that was not the case here. Prior to these scenes, the books had let me to believe they were fantasy adventures involving dragons, threat of evil taking over and mild peril for the characters but nothing on this scale. Now I’m not sure who I’d recommend them to.
4) Finally, I still want more Chinese culture and mythology from these books. In the finale, we do see some recognisable Chinese locations and I hope there are more scenes like these. However, for much of the book they are just in generic fantasy locations and with creatures that to my knowledge (apart from the dragons) are not specific to Chinese mythology.
Overall, I do want to know what happens next in the plot, but the writing style is definitely not to my taste.
May 11, 2022
CAWPILE rating: 5.71
Read
November 14, 2025I started reading this series with my youngest son, a chapter each night, and it's definitely been a firm favourite with him. He's 6 years old and it keeps his attention really well from night to night. The chapters are relatively fast paced with the immediate story never being drawn out across multiple chapters making it feel serialised and easy for my son to follow over a long period of time reading. There is also a huge over arching story too that keeps me reading too.
I'm dying to find out how they'll defeat the Dragon of Death!
We have so many theories of what's going to happen in the next book given the big old reveal at the end this one. I knew it was coming but I was hoping it wouldn't! My son was shocked (so was I)!
If you're looking for a book to read with a fantasy loving youngster this has all the dragons, and superpowers, and magic, and action, and friendship you could want.
I'm dying to find out how they'll defeat the Dragon of Death!
We have so many theories of what's going to happen in the next book given the big old reveal at the end this one. I knew it was coming but I was hoping it wouldn't! My son was shocked (so was I)!
If you're looking for a book to read with a fantasy loving youngster this has all the dragons, and superpowers, and magic, and action, and friendship you could want.
April 2, 2022
Personally one of my favorite series. I love the dragon realm books! This book has a gripping storyline and good plot twists. By the end though I really wanted to slap spark, but I won't tell you why. Read it yourself!
January 29, 2021
Well, if this isn’t just a blooming magnificent sequel and a half. Dragons, friendship, powers, some BAD BAD baddies and full of adventure. This is deliciously good - full of shocked many times and that ending has left me DESPERATE for book 3. The brilliance of book one with even more incredible worlds, strange creatures and darkness everywhere. You can’t not love these kids and their dragons! I need to know what is going to happen next!!
April 29, 2021
So much fun! This takes up where the first book finishes and the pace is fast. As with the first book, I love the emphasis on friendship and doing the right thing. Being brave even when faced with unimaginable dangers and championing love and hope. Not letting the darkness harden your heart.
Can't wait for the next installment.
Can't wait for the next installment.
September 17, 2021
I read these as a kid in my class has found them to help him love reading, which is a massive relief and fills me with joy! They’ve got plots which kids will love, though I’m not really an adventure story lover myself.
May 2, 2021
Outstanding MG adventure with a devastating twist.
May 7, 2021
I love dragons, and so I'm always attracted to dragon stories. This doesn't disappoint. Only problem is that I have to wait until September for part three!
May 10, 2021
Great read for MG, I think my kids will love it. Look forward to reading book #3 now!
August 12, 2021
The mysteries in this book are fantastic. This book is full of surprises. I love how the characters try to help each other even if it's impossible. The end is a little sad but is brilliant.
February 5, 2023
Amazing creative book!
November 5, 2021
Good Sequel
February 10, 2023
Amazing book with such a cliffhanger! So excited for book #3.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 6, 2022
This is the second book of a series for young readers. As a book for pre-teens I thought it was very cool that the characters weren't all from one place. By setting the action on a special interest camp in China for children to work on their Mandarin, we get an ensemble cast including a half-Chinese boy from San Francisco who likes surfing but has occasional panic attacks, a child beauty queen who is a perfectionist over-achiever, a quirky Irish nerdboy who just thinks learning new stuff is cool, a local girl who is compassionate and deeply interested in the natural world. In the first book they get themselves caught up in some next-level legendary stuff and they find themselves spirit bonded dragon riders with cool outfits and a noble quest, but the first book ends with a cliff-hanger betrayal that sees one of their party stolen away by evil forces...
Which brings us to the start of the second book, having picked up the bully/antagonist character from the previous book as a placeholder for their missing friend, we deal with some resentment and friendship building. Having dabbled in darker magical powers one of the dragons becomes allegorical for discussions of trust and supporting a friend who is resisting addiction. The second book also has a new animal companion which could be charming for a young audience; a flying pig the size of a baseball (which gives me "The Snitch" vibes but.. *shrug*)
This story has somewhat chaotic direction. The setting, because it is innately magical in the Dragon Realm, the authors have the freedom to be whimsical (eg.for the ocean to be made of lemon flavoured water, and the sun to be a strange shape). As the pivotal themes include trust and bonds of friendship, we se our intrepid adventurers charging off to places because it seems like a good idea, or because someone feels magically drawn to a missing companion. Their problems are solved by the friends working together and using their magical abilities and artifacts, but as these abilities evolve and change, even the characters don't quite know what they are capable of until they do it.
This randomness gives me a kind of Alice in Wonderland feeling in that, while there is thematic unity, you can never quite tell what sort of challenges (terrain, creatures, people..) you are about to face, or an obvious solution to any problem until it actually happens. It's fairly logical though so it's not as cheesy as Liono's Sword of Omens in Thundercats (which has a new unexplained power or weakness every episode). I would normally feel like this is a minus but given the target age-group I think it works pretty well.
Even though the reasonings for the plot seem not based on strong planning, the big plot twists are foreshadowed, so that even a 9+ audience might be able to tell that _something_ might go wrong, even if they can't predict the exact details.
It's certainly a fun fantasy world for the pre-teens, and I like that it isn't Euro-centric in its setting... we don't magically go into the past and find ourselves in medieval Europe. It's set in China and it stays in China... well, unless it's in the magical Dragon Realm.
Which brings us to the start of the second book, having picked up the bully/antagonist character from the previous book as a placeholder for their missing friend, we deal with some resentment and friendship building. Having dabbled in darker magical powers one of the dragons becomes allegorical for discussions of trust and supporting a friend who is resisting addiction. The second book also has a new animal companion which could be charming for a young audience; a flying pig the size of a baseball (which gives me "The Snitch" vibes but.. *shrug*)
This story has somewhat chaotic direction. The setting, because it is innately magical in the Dragon Realm, the authors have the freedom to be whimsical (eg.for the ocean to be made of lemon flavoured water, and the sun to be a strange shape). As the pivotal themes include trust and bonds of friendship, we se our intrepid adventurers charging off to places because it seems like a good idea, or because someone feels magically drawn to a missing companion. Their problems are solved by the friends working together and using their magical abilities and artifacts, but as these abilities evolve and change, even the characters don't quite know what they are capable of until they do it.
This randomness gives me a kind of Alice in Wonderland feeling in that, while there is thematic unity, you can never quite tell what sort of challenges (terrain, creatures, people..) you are about to face, or an obvious solution to any problem until it actually happens. It's fairly logical though so it's not as cheesy as Liono's Sword of Omens in Thundercats (which has a new unexplained power or weakness every episode). I would normally feel like this is a minus but given the target age-group I think it works pretty well.
Even though the reasonings for the plot seem not based on strong planning, the big plot twists are foreshadowed, so that even a 9+ audience might be able to tell that _something_ might go wrong, even if they can't predict the exact details.
It's certainly a fun fantasy world for the pre-teens, and I like that it isn't Euro-centric in its setting... we don't magically go into the past and find ourselves in medieval Europe. It's set in China and it stays in China... well, unless it's in the magical Dragon Realm.
October 10, 2021
New Words Learnt - 0
Book Cover - 4/5
Well, time certainly didn't do my opinions on Dragon Mountain any favours, as going into this I was rather sceptical that I would enjoy it, but after finishing this book and reading over my review of the first, it seems that I DID enjoy Dragon Mountain, despite small issues here and there. The same can be said with Dragon Legend, and I actually enjoyed it more than the first. There is no slow introductory start, instead we start straight away with the gang and the dragons, albeit one or two differences here and there. The humans are more coherent and bonded, so their interactions are more organic and enjoyable, so that was a nice change. Dylan was less pathetic here and more useful, though I'm still waiting for his character arc (if there is one) to be completed. Billy had less mood swings, so another positive change. Ling-Fei and Charlotte were more or less the same, but the bond together made them less annoying and more tolerable.
However, something I've noticed not just with this book but with some other books in the same age range and genre is that they like to TELL a lot more than SHOW, and try to (forcefully in my opinion) garner empathy from its readers at least once in every chapter, if not more often. I wasn't buying any of it though. Maybe because I'm out of the age range and life has made me quite cynical and sardonic but still, I like my children's fantasy just as well as the next person, and these are the things that bother me. To try to show Billy's thoughts and emotions through his actions and words than to blatantly explain each and every single one he has, and so often it is the most simplest of things that one would've taken for granted.
Mostly though, it's good. The writing again is pleasant and easy to read (no new words learnt though :/ ) with vivid descriptions, the places they visit is quite imaginative and creative, the action scenes were well written, the story continues its dark themes and I enjoyed the twists despite my unwillingness to accept some of them. I got the third and final instalment (I think it's a trilogy, nope actually I just checked and there's a fourth on it's way, so let me just correct that...), I got the next instalment (Dragon City) and will read that soon as I am quite invested in the story.
EDIT 1 - Oh yeah, before I forget, this book definitely would've benefited from a map of some sort.
Won't do a Dragon-o-meter for Da Hao (aka Dimitrius) or the Dragon of Death here because I think we get to know both a lot better in the next book. Would also like to add +1 Power onto both Spark and Buttons' previous ratings.
Book Cover - 4/5
Well, time certainly didn't do my opinions on Dragon Mountain any favours, as going into this I was rather sceptical that I would enjoy it, but after finishing this book and reading over my review of the first, it seems that I DID enjoy Dragon Mountain, despite small issues here and there. The same can be said with Dragon Legend, and I actually enjoyed it more than the first. There is no slow introductory start, instead we start straight away with the gang and the dragons, albeit one or two differences here and there. The humans are more coherent and bonded, so their interactions are more organic and enjoyable, so that was a nice change. Dylan was less pathetic here and more useful, though I'm still waiting for his character arc (if there is one) to be completed. Billy had less mood swings, so another positive change. Ling-Fei and Charlotte were more or less the same, but the bond together made them less annoying and more tolerable.
However, something I've noticed not just with this book but with some other books in the same age range and genre is that they like to TELL a lot more than SHOW, and try to (forcefully in my opinion) garner empathy from its readers at least once in every chapter, if not more often. I wasn't buying any of it though. Maybe because I'm out of the age range and life has made me quite cynical and sardonic but still, I like my children's fantasy just as well as the next person, and these are the things that bother me. To try to show Billy's thoughts and emotions through his actions and words than to blatantly explain each and every single one he has, and so often it is the most simplest of things that one would've taken for granted.
Mostly though, it's good. The writing again is pleasant and easy to read (no new words learnt though :/ ) with vivid descriptions, the places they visit is quite imaginative and creative, the action scenes were well written, the story continues its dark themes and I enjoyed the twists despite my unwillingness to accept some of them. I got the third and final instalment (I think it's a trilogy, nope actually I just checked and there's a fourth on it's way, so let me just correct that...), I got the next instalment (Dragon City) and will read that soon as I am quite invested in the story.
EDIT 1 - Oh yeah, before I forget, this book definitely would've benefited from a map of some sort.
Won't do a Dragon-o-meter for Da Hao (aka Dimitrius) or the Dragon of Death here because I think we get to know both a lot better in the next book. Would also like to add +1 Power onto both Spark and Buttons' previous ratings.
January 25, 2023
L'année dernière, j'avais lu le premier tome de Camp dragon qui ne m'avait pas totalement convaincue surtout à cause de quelques longueurs mais, les éditions Hachette Romans m'ont proposé de lire ce second tome alors j'ai décidé de laisser une chance à cette suite. Ai-je bien fait ? Billy, ses amis et leurs dragons doivent à tout prix empêcher le Dragon de la Mort d'arriver au pouvoir. Pour cela, ils doivent se lancer à la recherche des perles de pouvoir mais avant tout, ils vont devoir sauver leur ami Dylan qui a été kidnappé par l'ennemi.
Avant d'entrer dans le vif du sujet, je voulais vous parler de quelque chose qui m'a chiffonné et qui est certainement dû à la traduction. Un des dragons se nomme Etincelle et il est dit que c'est un dragon mâle et il est majoritairement genré au masculin, mais parfois, il est genré au féminin. Je mets ça sur le dos de la traduction parce qu'il n'est pas question de transidentité dans ce livre. Je pense que c'est plutôt à cause du fait que le mot "étincelle" est féminin en français. Je dois bien avouer que j'ai été chiffonnée par ces erreurs répétées plusieurs fois dans le livre.
En ce qui concerne l'histoire, j'ai bien aimé découvrir plus amplement le royaume des dragons, de voyager dans cet univers aux couleurs vives, aux îlots flottants et aussi ces Terres gelées avec les créatures originales qui s'y trouvent. J'ai aussi bien aimé que dans le royaume des Hommes, l'histoire se déroule dans la Chine impériale. Je lis rarement des livres qui se déroulent dans ce pays donc c'était agréable de le découvrir.
Dans ce tome, nous découvrons un peu mieux les dragons et leurs caractères. Il y a le doux Bouton, le bagarreur Tank, l'impétueuse Xing et Etincelle l'ambivalent. Ils ont chacun leur charme et j'ai bien aimé les découvrir. Comme je suis une grande fan de dragons, j'étais ravie. J'ai trouvé que ce livre prône la force de l'amitié. Les dragons tissent de beaux liens avec leurs humains Dylan, Charlotte, Ling-Fei et Billy. Même entre eux, les enfants nouent des liens très forts qui sont souvent salvateurs pour eux. Les enfants évoluent et acquièrent de nouveaux pouvoirs un peur à la Avengers. J'ai bien aimé ce petit côté super-héros.
Pour conclure, Camp dragon la Légende est un meilleur que le premier. J'ai pu découvrir plus amplement les personnages que ce soit les dragons ou les enfants tout comme l'univers qui s'est enrichit. Même si je déplore les problèmes de traduction, je lirai la suite parce que je n'avais pas vu venir la fin et je suis curieuse de voir ce que ça va donner.
Twogirlsandbooks
Avant d'entrer dans le vif du sujet, je voulais vous parler de quelque chose qui m'a chiffonné et qui est certainement dû à la traduction. Un des dragons se nomme Etincelle et il est dit que c'est un dragon mâle et il est majoritairement genré au masculin, mais parfois, il est genré au féminin. Je mets ça sur le dos de la traduction parce qu'il n'est pas question de transidentité dans ce livre. Je pense que c'est plutôt à cause du fait que le mot "étincelle" est féminin en français. Je dois bien avouer que j'ai été chiffonnée par ces erreurs répétées plusieurs fois dans le livre.
En ce qui concerne l'histoire, j'ai bien aimé découvrir plus amplement le royaume des dragons, de voyager dans cet univers aux couleurs vives, aux îlots flottants et aussi ces Terres gelées avec les créatures originales qui s'y trouvent. J'ai aussi bien aimé que dans le royaume des Hommes, l'histoire se déroule dans la Chine impériale. Je lis rarement des livres qui se déroulent dans ce pays donc c'était agréable de le découvrir.
Dans ce tome, nous découvrons un peu mieux les dragons et leurs caractères. Il y a le doux Bouton, le bagarreur Tank, l'impétueuse Xing et Etincelle l'ambivalent. Ils ont chacun leur charme et j'ai bien aimé les découvrir. Comme je suis une grande fan de dragons, j'étais ravie. J'ai trouvé que ce livre prône la force de l'amitié. Les dragons tissent de beaux liens avec leurs humains Dylan, Charlotte, Ling-Fei et Billy. Même entre eux, les enfants nouent des liens très forts qui sont souvent salvateurs pour eux. Les enfants évoluent et acquièrent de nouveaux pouvoirs un peur à la Avengers. J'ai bien aimé ce petit côté super-héros.
Pour conclure, Camp dragon la Légende est un meilleur que le premier. J'ai pu découvrir plus amplement les personnages que ce soit les dragons ou les enfants tout comme l'univers qui s'est enrichit. Même si je déplore les problèmes de traduction, je lirai la suite parce que je n'avais pas vu venir la fin et je suis curieuse de voir ce que ça va donner.
Twogirlsandbooks
January 3, 2022
Billy Chan and his friends travel to the Dragon Realm to save Dylan from the Dragon of Death. They will need to collect eight magical pearls to have a chance against the super powerful immortal Dragon of Death. They will need to travel through the Frozen Wasteland and to the imperial palaces of Ancient China to collect the pearls.
I thought the second novel was more entertaining than the first one. However, I still feel like the team dynamic is lacking and most of the time the characters are just adding to Billy's train of thought instead of being independent people. I am not the target demographics so, younger readers might not notice slight faults between character development and team building between characters. I did like that this book contained more humor than the previous novel. Young readers who are fascinated with dragons would enjoy this book.
I thought the second novel was more entertaining than the first one. However, I still feel like the team dynamic is lacking and most of the time the characters are just adding to Billy's train of thought instead of being independent people. I am not the target demographics so, younger readers might not notice slight faults between character development and team building between characters. I did like that this book contained more humor than the previous novel. Young readers who are fascinated with dragons would enjoy this book.
May 27, 2025
This book is really inspiring! Dragon Legend by Katie and Kevin Tsang is an amusing fantasy book. This book is about Billy and his three friends Dylan, Charlotte and Ling-Fei were trying to find The 8 Great Treasures/magic pearls, but they only managed to find only 6 of them because the Dragon of Death has 2 of the pearls. The story ended with a thrilling expectation of 'what is going to happen', because Billy's dragon Spark had betrayed him by giving all 8 pearls to the Dragon of Death. My most favorite character is Billy because he always has positive thinking in every situation, even if Billy and his friends are chained on to a wall. This story kept me hooked because every time when they explore various dimensions, something unique occurs in the story. I would recommend this book for fantasy readers and for 10 year olds.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 6, 2024
Dragon Legend is book number 2 of the Dragon Real Series by Katie and Kevin Tsang. This book was incredibly fun! I am reading this book with my 9-year-old son. This time, Billy, Dylan, Charlotte, and Ling-Fei, along with their faithful dragons, are taken deep into the Dragon Realm and go through many perilous side quests to get to their final target, the Dragon of Death. What they don't realise is that something very dark lurks among them, and a major plot twist is the perfect ending to this instalment of the series.
Written in an engaging and fun way, Dragon Legend keeps characters rich and relatable. The world-building is incredible, and every aspect of the story is beautifully handled. We cannot wait to read Dragon City!
Written in an engaging and fun way, Dragon Legend keeps characters rich and relatable. The world-building is incredible, and every aspect of the story is beautifully handled. We cannot wait to read Dragon City!
March 13, 2021
This picked up immediately after the previous one left off and it was pretty much non-stop action from there on. There were a couple of good twists, and while I did see them coming I am much older than the intended target market and I think it will surprise younger children. The chapters are a really good length and encourages you to read more and more. I cannot wait until the next book!
I was sent this book by Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I was sent this book by Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
December 28, 2022
This one picks up right where Dragon Mountain finished, so we waste no time getting back into the action. The world is so descriptive and imaginative, you feel like you’re right there with the gang. The characters are still fantastic. I love the relationships between the friends and their dragons. We meet some new characters, who only add to the adventure. There are some great twists and turns to keep the adventure alive. And another brilliant ending. I can’t wait to pick up the next book.
January 2, 2023
I enjoyed seeing how this adventure progresses but I wish it had been a bit more of it's own story. This suffers from being the middle book in a trilogy that gets overshadowed by the first book and the set up for the next. That said the story was still well written and I really enjoyed seeing more of the Dragon Realm. The characters experienced some interesting growth, and all around it did make me very excited for the next book.
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