Torrie and the Dragon

Teya Rosenberg is an assistant professor of English specializing in
children’s literature at Southwest Texas State University.

Deep in the Wild Wood, Old Creatures gather for a night of storytelling.
They urge Torrie, a small, furry humanlike creature, to tell them a
fairy tale about humans. His tale is about a Hero, an Enchantress, and
himself as they escape from an evil sorcerer, save a bear, find a magic
sword, and kill a dragon. As Torrie tells his story, he admits his own
disruptive antics, and he emphasizes the Enchantress’s abilities to be
a hero too, despite being a Maiden. His listeners interrupt constantly,
particularly the goblin, Bobbin, who disagrees with the negative
portrayal of goblins and is disappointed that no people are eaten.

The author of this entertaining story does not overdo the descriptions
of setting (a common fault with first fantasies), but concentrates
instead on action and characterization, thereby creating a good read.
The story participates in the current trend of debunking the stereotyped
aspects of heroism by detailing the doubts of the Hero. By having vocal
representatives of common villains such as goblins, imps, and bears
among the listeners, the narrative also presents the idea that there are
many sides to a story. Although these adjustments to the fairy-tale form
are skilfully done, the challenge of the evil sorcerer is resolved too
easily. Recommended.