Deep in the wilderness is a special, secret place where dragons rule the skies and the mystical creatures we have come to forget still roam the woodlands. Fierce griffins, gentle minotaur, beautiful unicorn... This is the Wyvernwood, and it is the last refuge for these beautiful beasts.

But for how long?

For humans have come to the wood, bringing with them their axes and their fire. Destroying the homes of hummingbird and eagle and kidnapping a minotaur boy.

Only little Bumble, a hummingbird of poor memory but great courage (and vast appetite) witnesses their malevolence, and seeks help. In the form of beautiful Marian, the last unicorn. Together, with the help of the grey dragon artist, Ronaldo, they set up on a dangerous adventure that will lead them into the stronghold of man himself - themost dangerous monster of all.

And back at the Wyvernwood, things are not running smoothly. The cruel griffin, Gaunt, has ascended to the throne of ruler and he will stop at nothing to destroy the hold the dragons have over the leadership of the woods. With his schemes and poisoned mind, only darkness can insure.

Delightfully written and with characters both charming and sinister, I imagine this book, the first of a trilogy, would be enjoyed by many of my friends here. Even if the griffins are put in the role of "evil". I loved the characterisation (particularly little Bumble and "Daddy" the snake) and there is also a healthy injection of humour.

All in all, lovely - and well worth the 75% off price tag I paid for it! ( )

Tries way to hard to be clever, getting in Shakespearean quotations even. Good Mythical creatures, stupid bad mythical creatures, nasty men-folk. I won't be looking for the rest of the series. ( )