Stephen King at his best. (The Eyes of the Dragon - Stephen King)

Member Name: LaptopAcidX

Product:	The Eyes of the Dragon - Stephen King
Date:	30/07/09 (20 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Beautiful classic storytelling, riveting, strong characters.

Disadvantages: Not gory or horrific.

The kingdom of Delain is thrown into turmoil when the old king is poisoned and his son Prince Peter is imprisoned for the murder. With the help of his friends Peter makes a daring escape to fight the deliciously evil magician Flagg for the kingdom that is rightfully his.

First published in 1987 Eyes Of The Dragon was a surprising deviation from Stephen King who at the time was known primarily for horror writing. The book is quite literally pure sword and sorcery with both playing a major part in what is essentially a classic battle between good and evil.

The story telling is first rate and easily confirms King's often used publicity tag 'master storyteller'. It twists and turns, it's meticulous in it's detail, particularly the characters emotions and motivations which really puts the reader in the heart of the action. The action is related by an unnamed narrator using a very charming and casual style often throwing in amusing and illuminating observations that serve to drive and enhance the basic plot. Surprisingly for a Stephen King story it is suitable for all ages (maybe not the very young).

I couldn't put this book down and read it within a matter of days, I'd recommend it as a holiday book but many people would probably finish it on the flight. I've not read much of King's recent work but compared with his classics (thinking of The Stand) I'd have to say this is on a par with his best. I can't believe it hasn't been made into a film, it would wipe the floor with the dreary likes of Harry Potter and Lord Of The Rings.

Summary: Stephen King at his best.