This was a really sweet little story about a boy who makes friends with a dragon, discovers some of his heritage, and grows into a deeper richer person through his adventures.

I personally found this book quite sad even though I don't think that was necessarily the intention. Maybe that's just my painting nostalgia over the story from my own perspective on childhood.

I felt like the character journey that Johan goes through in this book is perfect for a middle grade child and I can imagine if I'd read this as a kid, I would have been completely swept up in it to the point that I'd become completely obsessed with dragons and Iceland. And really, this book also definitely feels like a love letter to Iceland.

Reading it as a adult and being the only person (the reader) who truly gets to see the full, unfiltered version of Johan's journey, I can't help but feel proud of him, which is an indication that Logue has done an unparalleled job of bringing his character to life.

This book also really feels like a love letter to Iceland, with the Siggy and Johan's reverence and excitement for all things Icelandic. The reader can't help but get caught up in it too.

And lastly, I would be remiss if I didn't mention Dreki. Who is cute and sweet and lovable. And if there's anything that kids love more than baby animals, I don't know what it is. Dreki might stretch the definition of a baby animal, but his cuteness, smallness and playful personality makes him read closely enough.

I recommend this book to any middle graders craving adventure, fantasy and dragons. And I recommend it to anyone at all curious about Iceland, and anyone who loves a young coming of age story.

Dreki was a heartwarming story as an adult and I know I would have loved it as a kid. It is a magical, yet bittersweet tale that feels like juvenile fiction version of A House in the Cerulean Sea.

Modern Middle-Grade Fantasy Adventure of a larger-than-life Grandfather and his grandson.
My Reaction: Transitions, it’s all about growing up, growing old, and moving on. A baby dragon must be returned home, a young man must lead them to Iceland, and the grandfather remembers the way.
This is a superb story that any age group can enjoy. The author incorporated nuggets about Iceland and its unique culture, language, and history, giving the story depth and authenticity and bringing the characters to life in an easy and believable way. The story has a mixed bag of emotions, including shame, honor, familial bonds, worry, and awe.
Warning: Health/aging trigger and modest dose of shenanigans.
5/5 for all the feels, rich context, and amiable characters.
This was sponsored through NetGalley for an honest review.