The Wizards of Once - by Cressida Cowell (Paperback)

About the Book

An instant "New York Times" and #1 international bestseller--the first book of a new series by the internationally bestselling author of "How to Train Your Dragon, " where the warring worlds of Wizards and Warriors collide in a thrilling and enchanting adventure.ure.

Book Synopsis

In the first book of a new series by the bestselling author of How to Train Your Dragon, the warring worlds of Wizards and Warriors collide in a thrilling and enchanting adventure.

Once there were Wizards, who were Magic, and Warriors, who were not. But Xar, son of the King of Wizards, can't cast a single spell. And Wish, daughter of the Warrior Queen, has a banned magical object of her own. When they collide in the wildwood, on the trail of a deadly witch, it's the start of a grand adventure that just might change the fabric of their worlds.

With Cressida Cowell's trademark wit, and the same stunning combination of action, adventure, heart, humor, and incredible artwork that made How to Train Your Dragon a beloved bestselling franchise, The Wizards of Once will transport and enchant readers.

Review Quotes

"Cowell crafts two believable and lovable main characters....[a] strong new series starter."
--School Library Journal

Praise for How to Train Your Dragon:
IRA and CBC Children's Choices List 2005
"Short chapters, clever slapstick, kid-pleasing character names and goofy, childlike drawings will keep even reluctant readers turning these pages--and chuckling as they go."--Publishers Weekly

"...a new fantasy world fizzing with evil, magic, Iron Age history, laugh-out-loud jokes, and a huge cast of memorable characters. Another bestseller is born."--The Daily Mail (UK)

"A clever and fresh new series.... Cowell fans will be elated to have a new world to get to know, and they'll welcome the author's familiar writing style and humor."
--BCCB

"A narrative rich in dragon muck...genuinely fierce [and] intelligent."--Kirkus

"A plethora of energetic illustrations keeps the excitement high...readers with a penchant for lighthearted fantasy are sure to enjoy this series opener and look forward to the next volume."--Horn Book

"A rollicking adventure tale and coming-of-age story rolled into one enjoyable package...Readers will fall in love with the imaginative worldbuilding and humorous dialogue and asides...A delightful magical romp."
--Kirkus

"One of the most eagerly awaited children's books of the year, this magical adventure is also one of the most spellbinding....Enormously entertaining and satisfying, it's narrated and illustrated with tangible energy and verve. The fantasy world and quest-driven plot are a triumph."
--The Bookseller (UK)

"The detail of Cowell's world is a delight...This one will run and run."--The Observer (UK)

"The first in a series, this book will delight and engage readers of fantasy both young and old."--School Library Connection

"The first volume of a new series by author and illustrator of the How to Train Your Dragon series is an event....Funny, thoughtful, and surprisingly wise and lively, this is another coup from Cowell."--The Sunday Times (UK)

"The tongue-in-cheek voice combines with scribbly b&w interior illustrations...to sustain a sense of wonder and mayhem from start to finish. Cowell skillfully mixes adventure with silliness in a satisfying story."--Publishers Weekly

"This hilarious farce will appeal to heroic fiction fans."--Booklist

"This is a goofy and exciting tale of an underdog who proves that brains can be just as important as brawn. Kids will hoot at the ridiculous names and sympathize with Hiccup's exasperation with his truly obstinate but strangely lovable dragon. A delightful read."--School Library Journal

Praise for The Wizards of Once:

About the Author

Cressida Cowell lives in London with her husband, Simon; children Maisie, Clementine, and Alexander; and two cats, Lily and Baloo. In addition to translating Hiccup's memoirs, she has written and illustrated picture books including Hiccup, the Viking Who Was Seasick, Little Bo Peep's Library Book, and That Rabbit Belongs to Emily Brown. Her website is www.cressidacowell.co.uk.