In this second book in the Dragonslayer series, the kingdom is being burnt town by town, the castle is under siege and children are being made into slaves. Axel is called back to the castle by the king to help in the defense of the kingdom from an invasion by blue-painted barbarians. He must choose between peace and war, killing and nonviolence, duty and desire, and so is torn between the peace of the valley, where he farms with his wife and son, and his duty to the king. Watch this gentle father and farmer as he struggles to fulfill his duty and still keep to his values.
For a kids book, the story is so engaging and fun! This installment is a bit more complex, but still has the simplicity that is like brain junk food for me. I love Axel and the other characters. Again, super easy and perfect for young readers dipping their toes into fantasy.