The first book in this popular series, not to be confused with the DreamWorks film, by Cressida Cowell. If you think it’s like the film you will be surprised as the main characters and plot share the same names but little else. This book is a popular read in the library and appeals particularly to Years 7 and 8, so I thought I would give it a go.
Without giving anything away, the plot gravitates around a would be Viking Hero, Hiccup, as he struggles to gain initiation into The Hairy Hooligan Tribe. Not being your average Viking Hero, Hiccup has to use all the other resources available to him including his: brains, friends, sword fighting skills and ability to speak Dragonese.
Despite being considerably older than the average reader of this book, I was surprised at how much I enjoyed it. The book was well written with a striking use of language. It was broken up with amusing facts and naive illustrations, that effectively complement the light-hearted tone and humour of the story. The move away from stereotypical heroes in children’s fiction, most famously seen in Harry Potter, creates more believable characters that we can all relate to as they struggle to beat the odds.
If you wanted to share this book with a younger sibling or pass a long car journey, I would also recommend the excellent audio books narrated by David Tennant (aka the old Doctor Who).
