Dragons at Crumbling Castle is a collection of 14 tales for children by Terry Pratchett but, trust me, you don’t need to be a child to appreciate them – all you need is a sense of humour and whimsy and perhaps a little private space so that people won’t stare at you funny when you read them on the bus (trust me, it’s embarrassing). Although these tales were written early in Pratchett’s career, they are just as funny as his Discworld books. As I read them I kept thinking I wish I had a small child to read them to because these are the kind of stories that make you want to do silly voices and sound effects.In the title story, King Arthur is informed that dragons have invaded crumbling castle. Ralph ‘a small boy in a suit of mail much too big for him’ is chosen by the king to deal with the problem (mainly because no one else is available) so he sets out with his talking donkey. After many exciting (and hilarious) adventures, they arrive at the castle only to discover that dragons are actually quite nice and peaceful. They only moved to the castle because the original lord dammed the river to build a swimming pool and accidentally flooded their cave. Among the other stories are two tales about the carpet people who set out on an adventurous journey across the carpet seeking a new home perhaps near the shiny plains of Linoleum, one about an egg-dancing contest, and one about Father Christmas’ attempt to find a job to help make ends meet during the other 364 days of the year when he’s not employed. I liked some stories more than others but they are all hilarious.Dragons at Crumbling Castle is the perfect antidote for a rainy afternoon or for the reluctant child at bedtime. It is just a whole lot of fun. The marvelously quirkly illustrations by Mark Beech are a perfect complement to the tales. The best thing: this is the kind of book you will probably enjoy just as much if not more than the kids. Whimsical, hilariously surreal and hugely entertaining, Dragons at Crumbling Castle is filled with hysterical and clever stories that will bring a big smile to your face. Terry Pratchett's writing is as sharp and unique as ever, his short stories - funny, intelligent and completely over-the-top (in a good way!). This is a great collection, full of Pratchett's signature humor. I had so much fun with these. Definitely a must read for all Pratchett's fans!
Do You like book Dragons At Crumbling Castle (2014)?
Short stories from a younger Pratchett. You can see just how creative he is from a very young age.
—Adrian
Adorable short stories presented in a way that I can see children liking as much as adult fans.
—PrincessFang
2.75 stars. Amusing and imaginative is as far as it went for me. I like it though.
—kiki
Was hoping for a book, not short stories he wrote early on.
—Christy
