Drake's Comprehensive Compendium of Dragonology    by Ernest Drake Order:  USA  Can Candlewick, 2009 (2009) Hardcover      Reviewed by Bob Walch Young readers eight years of age and older will find hours of pleasure in this lavishly illustrated encyclopedia of dragonology. Within the pages of this exquisite volume the author explains that 'the dedicated dragonologist will find all the many suppositions of dragon lore and facts of dragon science rationally presented and rigorously explained'. The various chapters detail not only the well known European dragons and the lesser-known hydra but also the pseudo-species such as the phoenix and the incognito. Insight is provided into dragon biology, from flight to reproduction, plus an in-depth look at the creatures' habits is presented, including communication, camouflage and notorious hoarding practices. There's also a fascinating section on humans and dragons, offering secrets of tracking and taming, deciphering riddles, and becoming a dragon master. Practical essentials, such as how to keep records, use spells, keep specimens and care for sick dragons, will expand the reader's knowledge of these magnificent creatures. 'Whilst it is true that some dragons can be ferocious, fearsome, frightening, and terribly dangerous - particularly to younger members of the human race who stray innocently into their domains - they can also be fabulous, fascinating, and funny,' writes Dr. Drake. 'What's more, if you meet a really intelligent dragon, it can be as good a friend as one is ever likely to meet!' Your young dragonologist will spend hours poring over the material found in this comprehensive dragon guide, arranged in five, informative sections. Note: Opinions expressed in reviews and articles on this site are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of BookLoons. Find more Kids books on our Shelves or in our book Reviews