The Dragonet Prophecy (Wings of Fire #1)

Gr 4-7--Five dragonets are hatched under a mountain, in the care of a group of rebel dragons, the Talons of Peace. They are key to a prophecy that will end the war raging among the dragon tribes. They clearly have a destiny, but no one is sure about the role of Glory, a beautiful Rainwing. She was not one of the original five, but a replacement for an egg that was cruelly smashed in an attempt by power-hungry dragons to thwart the fulfillment of the prophecy. When her life is threatened, the dragonets stage a daring escape from the mountain but are captured by the Skywing queen, Scarlet. She forces them to participate in gladiatorlike competitions for her amusement. Each one is eventually forced to fight Peril, her champion, whose very touch is made of fire. A fight with Peril is certain death, and she instills fear in all who meet her--all but the Mudwing dragonet Clay. The two develop a cautious and unlikely friendship. As the dragonets fight to survive, and Clay's relationship with Peril deepens, thrilling secrets of their pasts are revealed. Fully fleshed-out characters have unique personalities influenced by the distinct traits of their tribes. Plot twists and turns abound, and will keep readers cheering for the dragonets to the end.--Mandy Laferriere, Staley Middle School, Frisco, TX