Dragonborn

Two years after her father’s death, 12-year-old Alex Evans uncovers a secret about her parentage that her overprotective mother has been trying to hide: Alex is a dragon like her dad. As she begins coming into once-dormant powers like fire-breathing, the ancient dragon Oliphos whisks her away to the hidden island of Skralla, one of the last dragon strongholds on Earth, where she will study among other dragonlings and practice controlling her new abilities. Unlike her peers, however, Alex is unable to safely transfigure into dragon form, putting her at risk as her combat training grows too brutal for her human body to handle. Moreover, Drak Midna, a legendary evil dragon who disappeared years ago, resurfaces seeking an artifact that could grant him unspeakable power—and Alex fears she’s somehow connected to his search. Murray (Shipwreck Island) presents an introspective, harrowing story in which dragon transformations and quests for mystical objects ferry themes of grief, growth, and accepting change. Using familiar magical school tropes, the author balances wonder-laced, laughter-fueled adventure with fearsome action, resulting in a fanciful and exciting series opener. Alex reads as white. Ages 8–12. Agent: Steph Thwaites, Curtis Brown. (Oct.)