I wasn’t looking to start another book when I took a peek inside Ashley O’Melia’s The Wanderer’s Guide to Dragon Keeping. I’m still glad I peeked inside. It’s size is deceptive as it sucks you in deeper than expected.
While the story shows the challenges of raising a dragon in the modern world, it is also about healing and growing, along with believing in things considered infantile. It does so without lecturing or being cheesy in any way that would normally be negative. The few cheesy moments add to the story.
The characters are fully formed, like the story itself, helping to show some worlds we assume we know about in everyday life in another light. It simultaneously discredits a few stereotypes. This book also serves to remind readers that good books don’t always have to be one- to two-inches thick.
Something we all need to be reminded of from time to time. That an enchanting story can come in a small package. Along with the fact that, believing in things of fantasy can be both good and healing. This book also teaches that LARPing (Live Action Role-Playing) can be good exercise. After all, chainmail is not light. Something this reviewer hadn’t thought about for exercise, I will freely admit.
But it is also wonderful to see a story about a book leading to two people being brought together. The dragon helps further forge the relationship, but it all starts with a book. A book that helps our protagonist find her inner child and life once more. Reminding us to never let our inner child die since it is what helps keep us young and vibrant.
It also has the one drawback that all good books do, in that you never want it to end. But it also gives me hope that the past two generations of teens can bounce back and find happiness again. You’re going to have to read the book to understand why I say that.
With no surprise, I have to give this book 5 out of 5 bookmarks. It is an easy and relaxing weekend read. The only problem you will have is finishing the last few pages, because of not wanting it to end. Now, you’ll have to excuse me, but I am off to find a dragon egg of my own.
*Tips his hat, walking out the door, carrying a portable warming case.*
Functionally Fictional 
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