Step into the enchanting world of Dragon Masters, where young heroes bond with magical dragons to save their kingdom! Written by Tracey West, this New York Times bestselling children’s series blends fantasy, adventure, and heartwarming friendships. Perfect for newly independent readers, Dragon Masters captivates with its fast-paced plots and vibrant illustrations, inviting kids to soar into a realm of magic and courage.
Part of Scholastic’s Branches line, the series targets kids aged 6–8, offering accessible vocabulary and short chapters to boost reading confidence. With over 30 books, Dragon Masters follows Drake and his fellow Dragon Masters as they uncover their dragons’ powers and face thrilling challenges. Ready to meet Worm, the Earth Dragon, and embark on an epic quest?
How Dragon Masters Began
Tracey West, a prolific author with over 400 children’s books, launched Dragon Masters in 2014 with Rise of the Earth Dragon. Inspired by her love for fantasy and media tie-ins like Pokémon, West crafted a series that blends dragon-filled adventures with relatable themes for young readers. Published under Scholastic’s Branches imprint, Dragon Masters was designed to bridge the gap between leveled readers and chapter books, making it a hit in classrooms and homes.
West’s vision was to create a world where kids could see themselves as heroes. She named the protagonist Drake, meaning 'dragon' in Old English, to reflect his destiny. With illustrator Graham Howells’ black-and-white sketches adding depth, the series quickly gained traction, earning praise for its engaging storytelling and diverse cast.
The Heart of Dragon Masters
The series kicks off with Rise of the Earth Dragon, where 8-year-old Drake, an onion farmer, is chosen by the magical Dragon Stone to train Worm, an unflashy but powerful Earth Dragon. Together, they forge a bond and save their fellow Dragon Masters. In Saving the Sun Dragon, Drake’s friend Ana faces a crisis when her dragon, Kepri, falls ill, leading the team on a global quest for a cure. Secret of the Water Dragon introduces Bo, whose dragon Shu holds secrets tied to a stolen Dragon Stone, while Power of the Fire Dragon pits the team against a fiery threat.
Dragon Masters shines through its themes of friendship, responsibility, and self-confidence. Each book explores the unique bond between Dragon Masters and their dragons, from the calm Worm to the fiery Vulcan. The fantasy setting, filled with wizards, kings, and magical artifacts, feels both epic and accessible. West’s light tone and fast-paced plots keep readers hooked, while the diverse cast—Drake, Ana, Rori, and Bo—reflects varied backgrounds, making the series inclusive and relatable.
The series’ style is perfect for young readers: short sentences, rapid dialogue, and illustrations on every page create a dynamic reading experience. Whether battling dark wizards or uncovering dragon powers, the stories balance action with emotional growth, teaching kids to trust themselves and their friends.
Why Dragon Masters Resonates
Dragon Masters has become a beloved staple for young readers, with over 30 books and counting, including the latest, Night of the Dream Dragon (2025). Its impact lies in its ability to spark imagination while building reading stamina. Parents and educators praise its engaging content, with reviews noting kids’ excitement to devour each new installment. The series’ inclusivity, featuring characters like Tessa, a blind Dragon Master in Call of the Sound Dragon, adds depth and representation.
By blending fantasy with real-world lessons, Dragon Masters inspires courage and teamwork. Its lasting appeal comes from West’s knack for crafting stories that feel fresh yet familiar, ensuring every adventure feels like a new journey. For kids who dream of dragons, this series is a gateway to lifelong reading.
- First published: 2014
- Number of books: 30+
- Target age: 6–8
- Part of Scholastic Branches
Grab Rise of the Earth Dragon and dive into the magical world of Dragon Masters today! Whether you’re a young reader or sharing the adventure with one, this series promises thrills, heart, and dragon-sized fun!