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192
Novel • Fiction
Pern • Distant Future
1976
Middle grade
12-18 years
Dragonsong by Anne McCaffrey follows a young person named Menolly who discovers a passion for music in a society where women are discouraged from such pursuits. Menolly's journey includes finding acceptance and pursuing her dreams despite societal constraints. The story is set in the world of Pern, featuring fire-lizards and traditional harper roles.
Adventurous
Fantastical
Inspirational
Emotional
Heartwarming
Anne McCaffrey's Dragonsong has garnered praise for its immersive world-building and compelling heroine. Readers appreciate the lyrical prose and emotive storytelling. Critics note occasional predictability and wish for deeper character development. Nevertheless, the novel's imaginative spirit and engaging plot make it a beloved entry in the Pern series.
Fans of coming-of-age fantasy novels with strong, determined female protagonists will enjoy Dragonsong by Anne McCaffrey. Similar in appeal to Tamora Pierce's Alanna: The First Adventure and Robin McKinley's The Hero and the Crown, it combines a richly detailed world with themes of resilience and musical talent.
Yanus
Menolly's strict and traditionalist father, the Sea Holder of Half-Circle, whose rigid beliefs and oppressive tactics position him as a key obstacle to Menolly's goals.
Mavi
Menolly's mother, who assigns her daughter difficult tasks and discourages her musical ambitions, believing it will protect her from her father’s wrath.
Harper Elgion
A young and charming musician who replaces Menolly’s mentor at Half-Circle Sea Hold, tasked with shifting the community's staid culture and assisting in the search for Petiron's apprentice.
Mirrim
Menolly's friend at Benden Weyr, a young girl about Menolly’s age with a caring nature who supports Menolly’s healing and acclimation to the Weyr.
Masterharper Robinton
The leader of all harpers on Pern, a kind and humble mentor who recognizes Menolly's musical talent and plays a crucial role in her journey to Harperhall.
192
Novel • Fiction
Pern • Distant Future
1976
Middle grade
12-18 years
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