Part of Pern
First published 2003
Menolly possesses extraordinary musical talent, but her father refuses to let a girl become a Harper. On Pern, where deadly Thread falls from the sky and dragons protect the world, fewer dragonriders remain to defend against the ancient menace. Menolly's gift for song and melody burns within her, yet tradition blocks her path to the Harper Hall. When her father's prohibition becomes unbearable, she escapes to the coastline and takes refuge in a seaside cave. There she encounters nine fire lizards, small dragon cousins that bond with humans. These creatures recognize her musical abilities and respond to her songs. As Menolly cares for the fire lizards and they grow to trust her, she discovers that her bond with them might offer more than companionship. The fire lizards could provide a way to prove her worth and perhaps save Pern itself. Her music, once forbidden, becomes the key to her survival and her future.
Genres: science-fiction-fantasy, adventure, coming-of-age, fantasy, young-adult, epic-fantasy
Vibes: adventurous, emotional, empowering, inspirational, lyrical, whimsical
Tropes: chosen-one, forbidden-talent, found-family, self-discovery
Setting: Pern, Harper Hall, seaside cave
192 pages · Paperback · Aladdin Paperbacks
Content warnings: sexism