The Dragon Defenders (The Dragon Defenders #1)

Cued-white brothers Flynn and Paddy must protect their magical, off-the-grid island home from nefarious newcomers in Russell’s thrilling series opener. The siblings live on a secluded island with their family as well as their pet menagerie, which includes their dog Coco, horse Clappers, falcon Lightning, and a cantankerous dragon named Big Red, who rules the island. When wicked visitors, possessing futuristic technology from the outside world and controlled by a villain known as the Pitbull, invade the island to steal what is purportedly the world’s last dragon egg, the brothers and their family rally together to save their home. Though the villains and their predictable actions occasionally read as caricature, the brothers’ endearing relationship, their heroic animal companions, and the nuanced contrast between the characters’ simple island life and the technologically advanced world beyond their shores provide depth. Russell uses eloquent prose, well-timed humor, and familiar tropes to craft an action-packed adventure. Temiz’s realistic and expertly shaded illustrations are interspersed throughout. The narrative includes interactive illustrations accessible via a separate digital application download and unique code. Ages 8–12. (Self-published)