Emily Rodda is one of Australia’s most acclaimed and succesful authors of fantasy for children. Her popular Deltora Quest books are now in their third series, and Dragon’s Nest, the first installment in the series, is sure to satisfy young fans.
Lief, Barda and Jasmine reunite when they realise that the Shadow Lord, who they previously defeated and banished, has left behind the seeds of death, hidden around the kingdom. These four creations are slowly killing the land, foreshadowing a return by the Shadow Lords. The three young heroes must find and destroy them if they are to ensure a better future for Deltora.
Rodda tells a good tale, which is accessible to young readers. Even those with little experience of the fantasy genre will be drawn into the adventures of Lief and his friends.
Good stuff.
Dragon’s Nest, by Emily Rodda
Scholastic, 2003