A Discovery of Dragons

When Simon (Syms) Covington is offered a chance to sail aboard the Beagle as Charles Darwin’s assistant, he jumps at the chance. After all, it’s the adventure of a lifetime! A sudden storm at sea alters his fate by stranding him on an island in the Galapagos that is already occupied by a formidable foe – a dragon!

It is not all bad news, though. Syms also meets an island lizard that he names Farthing, for her beautiful, shiny copper eyes. Syms and Farthing work together to save each other repeatedly from the dangers of life on the island.

When Syms is finally rescued by his crew, he is half-dead, but he has managed to rescue eight dragon eggs. Although Syms should be thrilled, he worries about the life the dragon hatchlings will have back in London, so far away from their home.

Will Syms find a way to save the baby dragons before it is too late? Will Farthing find her happily ever after? This is a sweet story about love and loss, and having respect for our fellow creatures. It is a great read for elementary-aged kids and lovers of science of all ages!