Timothy and the Dragon’s Gate Book Review

Timothy and the Dragon's Gate Rating:

Author: Adrienne Kress

This sequel to Alex and the Ironic Gentleman stars Timothy, a smart yet troubled eleven year old boy who’s been kicked out of one too many schools. Now he’s forced to spend the daytime hours at his father’s work. It’s there that he meets the most unusual person who will alter the course of his life.

The Dragon

Timothy meets Mr. Shen, his father’s assistant. At first glance, nothing seems extraordinary about the little Chinese man. But Timothy soon discovers the truth: Mr. Shen is not human. He’s a dragon trapped inside a human’s body as punishment for his past behavior. Timothy now possesses the key that controls Mr. Shen. And only he can help him escape his cursed state.

The Road to China

Timothy and his gang of sidekicks embark on a long and perilous journey to China, battling the villainous ninjas and black taxicabs that are after the key. Timothy and Mr. Shen must reach the ancient Chinese Dragon’s Gate during the festival for the 125th year of the dragon before time runs out, or Mr. Shen will be trapped in his human form forever.

The Return of Alex

Fortunately, help is close at hand. Alex (the protagonist in book one) and the crew on the Ironic Gentleman make a cameo during one of the many action-packed battle scenes. Alex’s appearance in this novel was a great way to bridge the connection between two books.

The Bottom Line

Timothy and the Dragon’s Gate is good adventure story. But it’s not the most memorable book. Timothy, the protagonist, may get on your nerves with his too-cool, snarky attitude. Granted, the plot was original, and it brings you to China, a part of the world we rarely visit in YA fiction.

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