Content levels
Trigger warnings
Hero archetypes
Protagonist archetypes
Tropes
Synopsis
The Eyes of the Dragon is a fantasy novel by American writer Stephen King, first published as a limited edition slipcased hardcover by Philtrum Press in 1984, illustrated by Kenneth R. Linkhauser. The novel would later be published for the mass market by Viking in 1987, with illustrations by David Palladini. This trade edition was slightly revised for publication. The 1995 French edition did not reproduce the American illustrations; it included brand new illustrations by Christian Heinrich, and a 2016 new French version also included brand new illustrations, by Nicolas Duffaut. At the time of publication, it was a deviation from the norm for King, who was best known for his horror fiction. The book is a work of epic fantasy in a quasi-medieval setting, with a clearly established battle between good and evil, and magic playing a lead role. The Eyes of the Dragon was originally titled The Napkins.
Is The Eyes of the Dragon appropriate for my child?
Suitable for most readers 10 and up.
King's fairy-tale-like fantasy features classic good vs. evil with political intrigue, murder by poisoning, and imprisonment, but violence is not graphic. Appropriate for middle grade readers who enjoy medieval-style fantasy.
What to know going in
This book has moderate violence, no sexual content, and mild language. Content notes include murder, political violence, and poisoning (see the full list above).
Who'll love this
A thrilling medieval fantasy about princes, dragons, and an evil magician with clear heroes and villains in an exciting quest story.