The New Age captivates readers through high stakes dragon encounters and a secret history that explains a world at war. It challenges children with nuanced characters who face difficult choices regarding loyalty and sacrifice. Books in this family share cinematic world building, epic fantasy landscapes, and complex protagonists who bridge the gap between rival factions.
Reach for this book when your child is grappling with the idea that the world is rarely divided into simple categories of 'good guys' and 'bad guys.' It is a powerful tool for the middle-schooler who is ready to explore how ancient prejudices can be unlearned and how individuals can take responsibility for a better future. Through an epic fantasy lens, the story explores themes of loyalty, the burden of history, and the courage required to break a cycle of violence. While the plot features high-stakes action between humans and dragons, the heart of the book is about the weight of choices and the importance of empathy. It is an ideal pick for ages 8 to 12, especially for children who are transitioning from simple adventure stories to more complex narratives about social justice and accountability. Parents will appreciate how it models the difficult work of making peace in a world that has only known war.
