The Dragons Boy: A Tale of Young
King Arthur by Jane Yolen
The Dragon Boy
Son of the Dragon
Thirteen-year-old Artos is not as good as swordsplay, romance, or any
other knightly accomplishment as his foster brothers Cai, Bedvere, and
Lancot. An orphan raised by the kindly Sir Ector, he doesnt even know the
identity for his parents. But one day, Artos stumbles into the cave of an old
and lonely dragon who offers to teach him the game of wisdom. Artos
accepts, and becomes the Pendragon--the son of the dragon, the dragons
boy. And with the dragons guidance, Artos sets out on a journey to a
remarkable destiny--one that he never dreamed could be his own.
Personal Review: The Dragons Boy: A Tale of Young King
Arthur by Jane Yolen

Everyone's read the oft-accepted story of King Arthur's boyhood, right? A
seemingly orphaned fosterling is raised by kindly Sir Ector, doesn't really
know who he is. This story gives a mild but enjoyable twist on the old
tale.Artos is a young orphan in Sir Ector's castle, whose only playmates
are the sons of Sir Ector, who often look down on him. One day, as he
chases the dog Boadie into the woods, he comes across a cave that
appears to have a massive dragon inside it. Though Artos is initially afraid,
he befriends the ancient dragon. The dragon, in exchange for foodstuffs
from the kitchen, will teach Artos wisdom.The teachings that the dragon
give Artos unconsciously change his outlook and his treatment of other
people - even those below him. But after a strange incident in which the
dragon temporarily vanishes, Artos discovers the truth about his
friend.Aside from the works of Gerald Morris, I don't think I've found a more
likeable version of King Arthur than Artos. The lessons that he is taught are
mild but creep into the mind and take root, transforming him effectively
from a "bulky, unruly, illiterate boy" to a thoughtful and compassionate soul
(he isn't perfect, but who is?)The supporting cast is sparkling, from "Garlic"
Meg the kitchen maid, ancient Druid wiseman Linn, and the cheerful smith
who provides Artos with his first sword. The writing style is admittedly a bit
bare at times, but not so much that it is difficult to read. The dialogue and
visualization of the final chapter are perhaps the best part, almost
mystical.A small note to those reading this book for the first time: Read
carefully what the supporting characters say, and you might just guess
ahead of time what is up with the dragon.A magical tale without real magic,
this is an enjoyable tale for lovers of a darn good story and a must-see for
Arthuriana nuts!
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