From Booklist, 1999, Copyright © American Library Association. Used with permission.

Ages 5-8. That perennial source of fascination, the dragon, is the newest subject for the ever-inventive Gibbons. She follows dragons through different cultures and times, sorting them into different types--serpent dragons, sky dragons, and so on. She explains why people might have thought so much about dragons (to explain puzzling events such as earthquakes) and discusses their modern-day use in celebrating the Chinese New Year. The pictures vibrate with energy and combine colored pencils, watercolors, and textured papers, all outlined in Gibbons' characteristic black pen. The last page briefly covers other topics such as real-life Komodo dragons, the Loch Ness monster, and gargoyles. If displayed so that library patrons can see its gilt title and the fire-breathing creature on the front, this will be snapped up and enjoyed. (Reviewed May 1, 1999)¾: Susan Dove Lempke.