A TALE OF TWO DRAGONS

Two kingdoms decide to solve their differences—through dragons.

The kingdom of Arbor is known for its ample trees, orchards, mushrooms, birds, and fruit. Separated from Arbor by a long hedge, Pomosa is famous for its wheat, cattle, and lakes. The citizens of each kingdom often look to the other’s land, desiring the goods they lack. Hearing their parents’ wishes, the children steal the wanted items at night, escalating tensions between the two kings. Both rulers send ambassadors to China to get dragons to defend their territories. The resulting scenes show somewhat stereotypical portrayals of Chinese people (Arbor’s and Pomosa’s residents are diverse). The decision to have the kings travel to a real country feels jarring given that Arbor and Pomosa are fictional. The choice to set part of the book in China is especially odd given that the dragons appear to be European, with relatively short bodies, large wings, and the ability to breathe fire. (Chinese dragons have elongated bodies and are typically tied to water.) The presence of the dragons does halt the thefts, but the kings still demand each other’s goods. Eventually the dragons fight, collapsing in front of the citizens. Both kingdoms decide to forge peace and rid themselves of the selfish kings. The narrative is evenly paced and the artwork attractive, with whimsical landscapes filled with immaculate shading and detailed portraits in a warm pastel palette. However, they can’t overcome the clichéd and inaccurate cultural depictions. (This book was reviewed digitally.)

Inconsistencies in worldbuilding and confused portrayals overshadow this fantasy.