- Well-defined characters
- Fully developed fantasy world
- Creative use of language and ideas
- An imaginative, enduring tale
- Action tends to lag from time to time.
- Originally published in Italian as The Last Elf
- Published in the U.S. by Hyperion/Miramax in 2006
- ISBN: 9781423104056
- Translated by Shaun Whiteside
- 368 pages
- Mildred L. Batchelder Award Honor Book, 2007
- Association for Library Services to Children (ALSC) Notable Book, 2007
- Author is Silvana de Mari
In this marvelous fantasy, Yorsh meets with kindness and cruelty and tries to make sense of the human world. The surprising ending gives the reader the satisfaction of knowing the prophecy has been fulfilled. But along the way we have met unforgettable characters and had some fun in the process.
Silvana De Mari has written a many-layered story that can be read and enjoyed on different levels. Humor, surprises, and wishes fulfilled are balanced against cruelty and bigotry. Ultimately, there is the strong friendship and caring for others that makes this story memorable. The Last Dragon will appeal to tweens and adults alike who are looking for an imaginative, enduring tale. The Last Dragon is also an excellent read-aloud for the family or the classroom.
Jean Hatfield has experience as a children’s librarian, a school librarian, and a head librarian. She has served on the selection committee for major children’s book awards and is presently responsible for the selection of public library materials for youth – children and young adults - for the public library system in the largest city in Kansas, Wichita.
