Master Storyteller Joseph Bruchac’s latest novel, Dragon Castle, draws on the rich and magical legends of his Slovakian heritage as it explores themes of the hero’s journey, the journey to find oneself, and the courage to face one’s destiny.
15 year old Prince Rashko has lived his whole life in a peace secured by a distant ancestor, Pavol the Brave. It’s a good thing that peaces abounds, too, because his parents and older brother Paulek seem to be more interested in daydreaming, sword fighting and living a life of ease than in doing much of anything to secure the safety and long-term security of the realm. But Rashko is a thinker, a worrier, and young man with remarkable intellectual abilities who puzzles over the mysteries of his ancestor Pavol and his own place in the world. Rashko also chooses to shoulder the burdens that he feels his family neglects as they live their seemingly carefree lives. But when his parents are inexplicably drawn away to visit the nearby realm of Faerie, Rashko’s sense of responsibility and unease shift into overdrive, fearing something will soon befall the castle in his parents’ absence. Soon enough his fears ring true: a highly armed garrison, lead by a weasel-like Duke and his beguilingly enchanting daughter visit the castle, enchant Paulek into a betrothal, and set up an armed camp inside the castle walls. Now Rashko must rely on his few wise allies, his own courage and wits, and the deep, as-yet-inexplicable bond to his ancestor Pavol with himself to protect his family, their peaceful realm, and face his own destiny.
Bruchac is at home telling tales of young men (and women) on the path to becoming warriors, but there’s also a richer, more alluring world in Dragon Castle, full of magic, mythical beasts and the supernatural than in some of his other contemporary, more realistic YA novels (although I was reminded of Skeleton Man on more than one occasion). As in his other works, Bruchac’s mastery of prose, inclusion of the right mix of universal teen experience, and the fast-paced, action-packed plot make Dragon Castle an engrossing, heart-thumping, high-relatable adventure you won’t be able to put down until you breathlessly reach the end.
- Posted by Cori