Venture into the enchanting world of Dragon Keepers, where two young cousins and their mischievous dragon spark a whirlwind of magical adventures! Written by Kate Klimo, this middle-grade fantasy series follows Jesse and Daisy as they raise Emmy, a dragon hatched from a geode, while battling villains like the sinister St. George. Packed with humor, heart, and fantastical realms, Dragon Keepers captivates young readers with its blend of friendship and responsibility.
Perfect for kids who’ve outgrown Magic Tree House but aren’t ready for Harry Potter’s heft, this series weaves accessible storytelling with thrilling quests. From hidden libraries to underwater kingdoms, Jesse and Daisy’s journey is a delightful escape into a world where dragons and magic reign supreme.
How Dragon Keepers Began
Kate Klimo, a lifelong fantasy lover, drew inspiration from her childhood in Iowa, where she imagined magical creatures swimming through snowbanks. Her passion for authors like C.S. Lewis and E. Nesbit fueled her vision for Dragon Keepers, which began with The Dragon in the Sock Drawer in 2008. Klimo, a former Random House Children’s Books executive, crafted the series to bridge the gap for young readers craving adventure with a touch of whimsy, basing Jesse and Daisy on herself and her best friend, Justine.
The Heart of Dragon Keepers
The series spans six books, each plunging Jesse, Daisy, and Emmy into vibrant, magical settings. In The Dragon in the Sock Drawer, the cousins discover Emmy’s egg and become her protectors, facing St. George, a dragon slayer fueled by dragon blood. The Dragon in the Driveway sees them thwarting St. George’s plan to seize a magical forest, while The Dragon in the Library introduces a mystical library and a kidnapped dragon expert. The Dragon in the Sea dives into an underwater realm of selkies and mer-people as Emmy guards her brother’s egg.
Klimo’s storytelling shines through themes of growth, teamwork, and responsibility. Jesse and Daisy learn to care for Emmy while navigating challenges like her tween antics in The Dragon in the Volcano. The series’ settings—from fiery realms to icy North Pole adventures—burst with imagination, blending humor and pop culture references. Its accessible prose and fast-paced plots make it ideal for readers aged 8–12, offering a cozy yet thrilling fantasy experience.
Why Dragon Keepers Resonates
Dragon Keepers has carved a niche among young fantasy fans, praised for its engaging characters and inventive worlds. Parents and educators love its ability to spark reading enthusiasm, with reviews noting how it inspires reluctant readers to dive into books. The series’ focus on friendship and problem-solving resonates with kids, while its magical allure keeps them hooked. Though not a cultural juggernaut, its loyal following cherishes its heartfelt storytelling and dragon-filled escapades.
- First published: 2008
- Number of books: 6
- Target audience: Ages 8–12
- Genres: Fantasy, Adventure
Ready to soar with Emmy and her keepers? Grab The Dragon in the Sock Drawer and dive into the magical world of Dragon Keepers today!