Dragonkeeper
(Carole Wilkinson)
This children's novel is a skilfully written book which will appeal to readers in the 10 to 14 year age bracket. It is a multiple prize winner, including 2004 Queenslands Premier's Literary Award, Aurealis Award and Children's Book Council, and shortlisted for the NSW premier's Literary Award.
Set in ancient China in the time of the Han Empire it follows the fortunes of an unnamed slave girl. From caring for a bad tempered, lazy master and tending to the animals associated with the palace, circumstances see her joining in the journey of the last of the Imperial Dragons on his way to the Ocean. The adventures and dangers that this unlikely pair encounter on their journey are many and require much ingenuity to overcome. As time passes, Ping, as the slave girl comes to be known, discovers hidden strengths and talents within herself, where previously she had thought of herself as stupid and useless.
The old dragon, Danzi, seems to make the journey even more difficult with his insistence on taking the dragon stone. While Ping is unsure of the reason for his obsession with the stone she finds herself equally reluctant to allow anything to happen to it. Unfortunately, all appears to be lost when Ping befriends the new Emperor and his plans do not match those of the old dragon. Danzi takes the dragonstone and with a new companion continues his journey. Ping is bereft but recovers when Danzi again needs her help. She now truly becomes the dragonkeeper. It is only at the conclusion of their journey, that the true significance of the dragonstone and Ping's skills as Dragonkeeper become apparent.
Carole Wilkinson has written an enjoyable tale, which combines adventure with myths and information of ancient China in a enchanting story. This is to be followed by the sequel Garden of the Purple Dragon which will continue to follow the growth and adventures of Ping. It is sure to be a worthwhile conclusion.
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