I would recommend this book to older children or teens as it does depict verbally abusive parents in the beginning of the book. However, the fantasy element seems to be more suited for older children, perhaps the age of 12.

I liked the journey plotline and I loved the characters, especially Bertie and Shona. It was humourous.

I particularly liked the explanation for disappearance of the dodo in the ‘human world’ (you’ll have to read it to find out what I’m talking about).

Shona had the personality of a dragon; fiery and fierce. But also adorable.

This book has Kelpies and Dragons and talking rats and dodos – what’s not to like?

Full review on my blog: https://allthingsbooks696874972.wordpress.com/2020/09/27/triple-book-review-auth... ( )

Orphan girl Morag lives a life of drudgery cooking and cleaning for her uncaring foster parents. After being locked in the cellar yet again for punishment, a talking dodo called Bertie and a rat called Aldiss appear. She sets off on an adventure with them to rescue a dragon named Shona who was turned to stone many years ago by the evil wizard; Devlish. They must retrieve an ancient stone used to protect the magical creatures homeland which Devlish has stolen.

A very nice tale with endearing characters that takes us to a place where 'dodos and dragons still live, and where lost children are lost no more.' ( )