Dragon in Hiding

A Review of Anthony Robinson and Dragon in Hiding

Main Themes:

•Time Travel and Alternate History: The story follows John Lewis, a young boy who travels through time and interacts with historical figures and events, sometimes changing the course of history.
•Magic and Witchcraft: John discovers he comes from a long line of witches, and his adventures involve encounters with magical creatures like dragons and witches, including historical figures like Mother Shipton.
•Good vs. Evil: John often finds himself facing evil forces, such as Count Orloff and Luther, and uses his wit, courage, and newfound magical abilities to combat them.
•Friendship and Loyalty: John forms strong bonds with various individuals, including Boudicca, Grey Wolf, and the dragon Kilgharrah, who help him in his adventures.

Most Important Ideas/Facts:

•John's Magic: Initially unaware of his magical heritage, John discovers his powers through a combination of family lineage and a visit to Glastonbury Tor on Midsummer's Day. His magic is boosted by a mysterious bangle that allows him to communicate with Kilgharrah.
•The Dragon in Hiding: Beelzebub, a powerful dragon, is a key ally to John, offering advice and assistance when needed. He is initially wary of humans but develops a fondness for John.
•Count Orloff's Invasion: John encounters Count Orloff, an ambitious and ruthless ruler, attempting to conquer Britain. John uses his knowledge of history and alliance with various groups to thwart the invasion.
•Boudicca's Destiny: John plays a crucial role in shaping Boudicca's future, encouraging her to embrace her warrior spirit and become the legendary warrior queen she is known for.
•The Shipton Witches: John's connection to Mother Shipton and her sister Ursula is significant. They guide and protect him, utilizing their prophecies and magic to ensure his safety and success.
•The Role of Prophecy: Prophecies, particularly those of Mother Shipton, play a vital role in guiding John's actions and foreshadowing events to come.

Quotes from the Sources:

•John's lack of awareness of his magical heritage: "John also didn't know if his aunties and his mother and his grandmother or Sybil, knew that he had a magic aura and he certainly was not going to tell them that he had seen all of their magic auras that afternoon when he had arrived home. There was a saying: 'Let sleeping dogs lie' and he intended to do just that."
•Kilgharrah's initial opinion of humans: "You know I don't normally give a fig about humans," said the Dragon voice in his head, "but one or two are special like you and so I'll help you."
•Count Orloff's ambition: "They are such fools," he thought. "They can think no further than food or a few valuables when a whole country is available for the taking!"
•John's influence on Boudicca: "Boudicca, these signs are all pointing at you as someone favoured by the gods. Will you swear an oath that you will train to become a great warrior?"
•The importance of Ursula Shipton: "Didn't he just tell Ursula Shipton about Mother Shipton and that the Romans would kill all of the Druids? Therefore, if there were still Shiptons alive throughout history, surely that was proof that Ursula did something about it…"