FICTION

Dungeon Runners: Hero Trial

Nosy Crow. (Dungeon Runners). Sept. 2024. 224p. pap $9.99. ISBN 9798887771410.
COPY ISBN
Gr 3-6–Readers join the telecast of “Dungeon Runners” as the teams enter the Armageddon Arena (Hunger Games for the mythical creature set). An accident with a dragon (it ate a team) creates an opening for a new team with a mage, fighter, and healer. Kit, the main character, is a gnorf—part gnome, part dwarf—who has always wanted to be a Dungeon Runner. Through sheer will and overcoming bullying and naysayers, Kit, along with his new friend Sandy, a mage-in-training, and Thorn, a vegan vampire, become team Triple Trouble. They are ready to run through a maze, meet monsters, find a treasure, and get help from tiny creatures as they complete the Dragon Trials so they can compete on Dungeon Runners. Team Triple Trouble is a crew that wants to belong. Throughout their experience, they learn to deal with bullying and some powerful emotions. This entertaining story contains well-developed descriptions and illustrations that allow readers to immerse themselves in the action. The story-specific vocabulary refers to the creatures encountered: gobrot, troggles, and gnorf. Written descriptions and character illustrations make these words easy to decipher. There are a few things to be aware of—the death of characters off-page but referred to, as well as bullying on-page.
VERDICT For collections needing Role-Playing Games (RPG) and funny sci-fi/fantasy series such as Max Brallier’s “The Last Kids on Earth,” Kazu Kibuishi’s “Amulet”, and Tui T. Sutherland’s “Wings of Fire,” this is a must-add to the list.

Be the first reader to comment.

Comment Policy:
  • Be respectful, and do not attack the author, people mentioned in the article, or other commenters. Take on the idea, not the messenger.
  • Don't use obscene, profane, or vulgar language.
  • Stay on point. Comments that stray from the topic at hand may be deleted.
  • Comments may be republished in print, online, or other forms of media.
  • If you see something objectionable, please let us know. Once a comment has been flagged, a staff member will investigate.


RELATED 

ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER?

We are currently offering this content for free. Sign up now to activate your personal profile, where you can save articles for future viewing

ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER?