For the child who feels different or carries a heavy secret, this high fantasy tale explores courage, identity, and finding strength within an unexpected destiny.
A parent might reach for this book when their child is struggling with feeling different or is deeply ashamed of a physical trait or secret. Dragon's Keep tells the story of Princess Rosalind, born with a dragon's claw that she must hide from the world. Banished to a remote castle, she discovers that her 'curse' is actually a key to a powerful destiny she never imagined. This high fantasy novel explores themes of self-acceptance, identity, and finding courage in what makes you unique. It's an excellent choice for a middle grade reader who needs to see a hero not just overcome a challenge, but embrace it as a strength.
Fantasy violence, including sword fights and battles. Not overly graphic.
Scary ScenesMild
Tense scenes with threatening characters and large dragons may be scary for sensitive readers.
Sensitive Topics
The story's central conflict revolves around a physical difference and the intense shame and isolation it causes. This is a direct, though fantastical, metaphor for disability or feeling like an outcast. The approach is secular. The resolution is very hopeful and empowering, as the protagonist learns to see her difference as a source of strength, not a flaw to be corrected. It also touches on parental rejection and emotional cruelty.
Ideal Reader
A child, aged 10-12, who feels like an outsider or is grappling with shame over something that makes them different (a physical trait, a learning difference, a family situation). Perfect for a sensitive reader who loves immersive fantasy worlds and strong female protagonists.
Parent Prep
The first few chapters detail the emotional cruelty and rejection Rosalind faces from her mother, which may be upsetting. A parent could preview these early scenes to be ready to discuss the queen's motivations (which are rooted in fear). Otherwise, the book can be read cold. A parent overhears their child say, "I hate my..." or notices them trying to hide a part of themselves. The child might express deep feelings of not fitting in or being 'weird' compared to their peers.
Age Experience
A younger reader (9-10) will be captivated by the adventure, the secret princess, and the magic of the dragons. An older reader (11-12) will connect more deeply with the metaphorical weight of Rosalind's journey, her struggle for self-acceptance, and the complexities of her family relationships.
What Makes It Special
Unlike many stories where a 'flaw' is magically removed for a happy ending, this book's core message is that the perceived flaw is a unique strength. The resolution is not about becoming 'normal,' but about embracing one's whole, authentic self and redefining what it means to be powerful.
Read plot summary
In a kingdom that fears dragons, Princess Rosalind is born with a dragon's claw for one hand. She is forced to hide it in a silver glove and is sent to a remote castle on her sixteenth birthday, ostensibly to be 'cured.' There, she uncovers secrets about her lineage and a deep connection to the very dragons her people despise. She must choose between hiding to fit in and embracing her true identity to save both her human and dragon worlds from a ruthless dragon slayer and a looming war.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.
Discussion Prompts
1
Rosalind spends her whole life hiding her dragon claw in a silver glove. Why was she so afraid for people to see it? Have you ever felt like you needed to hide a part of yourself?
2
Lord Faulke sees dragons as evil monsters, while Rosalind comes to see them as intelligent creatures. Why do they see the same animals so differently? What does this suggest about judging others?
3
When Rosalind finally chooses to embrace both her human and dragon sides, she becomes more powerful. What do you think the story is saying about accepting all the parts of who you are?
4
How does Rosalind's relationship with her mother change throughout the book? Why do you think the queen was so harsh to her at the beginning?
5
If you were in Rosalind’s position, would you have chosen to seek the cure or to learn more about your dragon heritage from the start? Why?
