Review Detail

More of a novella than a novel, Bob the Dragon Slayer is a fun, very tongue-in-cheek fantasy novel. Given the length and the humor, this is a very fast read that will bring a smile to your face more than once.

Bob, a simple peasant lad who also happens to be an orphan, sets out to seek his fortune. Hes heard that the king has offered both riches and his oldest daughters hand in marriage to anyone who can defeat a particular dragon bent on terrorizing the countryside.

Against all odds and with the help of a fledgling wizard named, of all things, Stephen, Bob actually defeats the dragon (his new sword, which he promptly dubs Bruce is also a huge help). However, the king and his daughter have no desire to associate or reward a peasant and they manage to legally wrangle out of Bobs promised reward.

Upset, but without any recourse, Bob continues his travels and soon finds himself slaying dragons left and right, and (sometimes) actually collecting the promised reward. After killing a particularly monstrous beast, he falls in with Wilfred (or Willie, as he likes to call him), a true knight who pledges to help and educate Bob.

This friendship truly changes Bobs life, especially after Willie discovers that Bob is actually the only surviving progeny of the rightful king. The other thing that really changes Bobs future&? Meeting Lady Katherine, a woman of, er, ample delights.

With further interference from Stephen, support from Willie, and with thoughts of the lovely Kate always on his mind, Bob soon finds himself working on unseating the current nasty king (yes, the same one that denied him his reward) and getting himself crowned The Peasant King.

This is a fun little fable and Bobs peasant attitude is sure to please reluctant readers. Recommended for readers aged 14 and up, primarily due to a bit of off-color-ness revolving around Bob & Kates romance, though it isnt particularly racy (especially if compared to many of todays most popular YA novels). Adults will also enjoy this one.