Do you like coming-of-age stories [a.k.a. bildungsromans] and dragons, but in contemporary settings? Oh, and bad guys and mob guys and the swamp? Don’t mind a little drinking and swearing (well, more than just a little)? Want something that isn’t super depressing? Have I got the read for you!
This book was read by Meredith Lewis, the [mostly] Orange County Campus Librarian.
Title: Highfire
Author: Eoin Colfer (yes, the Artemis Fowl guy)
Genre: contemporary fantasy, dragon and boy stories, swamp capers
#ReadGreatThings2020 Category: A book with a one-word title; A bildungsroman; A book about nature or the great outdoors
Why did you choose to read this book?
I needed a lighter read and have had my eye on this book for a while. I read the first chapter online, and it was funny and weird and I immediately liked the main [human] character, Squib, a fifteen year old who loves his mom and wants to do right by her, but can’t quite just behave in a way that keeps him out of trouble. I decided to keep reading.
What did you like about it?
The characters in this are really great and overall it’s just a fun book. The primary bad guy doesn’t try to justify some sort of dual nature– he’s just bad and pretty proud of how good he is at being bad and getting away with it. The swamp is its own character. Oh, and a dragon contemplating his own survival and meaning in the 21st century. Really, what’s not to like? Plus there are capers and murders and action and adventure.
What feeling did the book leave you with?
I’m always looking for a few good books that are pleasantly weird. This fit that bill. I was pleased with the story and pleased with the ending. It just worked for me. I also really want to see this animated.
What would you pair this book with?
Some fried food and Flashdance. For reasons.
Book friends [related reading recommendations]:
I’d recommend the Murderbot novella series by Martha Wells because Murderbot and Vern would understand each other a little too well. There’s a whole lot of sass in both.
I’d also recommend Naomi Novik’s Uprooted if you’re interested in unexpected dragons, though the style is completely different (but very lovely).
While the campus libraries are physically closed, check out your local public library’s awesome online collections or, if you’re able, consider supporting your local independent bookstores.
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