Dragon Smoke and Magic Song

David Harvey (author)

Pauline Baynes (illustrator)

Allen& Unwin, Australia: 1984; 103pp

ISBN: 0868614254

Genre: fantasy, short stories

Issues: environment, identity

Six charming chapters dealing with dragons, unicorns and the Taniwha, a creature of the Maori myths, it is unclear whether this is an episodic short novel or a series of short stories linked by theme and, in some cases, location or character.

The magical song of the unicorns is interrupted by the presence of a newcomer, a giant. Eventually he learns the ways of his new community and the song is enhanced by his own beautiful voice.

The little red dragon, Minimus, is a freak who brings shame to his great father, Igniferox, so he seeks refuge with a human family. There he is able to make friends and feel useful (the most important thing in the world for dragons) by helping Santa Claus as he makes his rounds, and by eventually becoming a Watch Dragon for his new family.

Two young Lords climb a steep crag and meet a mysterious man on their return, causing them to learn something about themselves and about the world in which they live.

All the stories emphasise the value of myth, individuals who are different in some way, or the environment.