The Hatchling by Suzanne Main

In this madcap, engaging junior fiction adventure, twins Willow and Hunter are living with their grandfather in his old house since their parents mysteriously disappeared. They are presumed dead after a boating trip a couple of years previously.

Grandpa is having trouble with his memory, and the twins are facing the prospect of being put in foster care. But then there are crashes in the attic, and they are astonished to find a dragon has hatched there.

This is the start of an extraordinary adventure as they try to keep the dragon a secret, as a series of strangers enter their lives, some with sinister intent. As a super blood moon approaches, everything reaches an unforgettable climax.

This is a superb, fast-paced read, with family and relationships at its core. The characters are exceptionally well-drawn, and the plotting is excellent. The story races along at breakneck speed, but in the end, all the pieces come together in a very satisfying way. Action, adventure, an underlying sense of humour, and a dragon! Who could want anything more? Perfectly pitched for junior fiction readers, parents will also enjoy the book if they are reading to their children.

Reviewer: Karen McMillan

Dogbox Press