cover image A Memory of Dragons

A Memory of Dragons

Annabel Johnson. Atheneum Books, $11.95 (170pp) ISBN 978-0-689-31263-2

Dragons, per se, have little to do with this speculative novel set in the near future. Paul Killian is a brilliant young inventor recruited to work for both the largest defense contractor in the country and for terrorists trying to wrest the Western stateswith all their resourcesaway from the Union. Paul must choose sides in this developing civil war as he comes to terms with violent memories of his father and his youth. With their muscular style and highly structured narrative, the authors may remind readers of the writings of Robert Cormier. This book, however, is broader and more fantastic thanAfter the First Deathand it has a happier ending. The result is a sophisticated, searching portrait of Paul that incorporates history, intrigue and love. (12-up)