In the time of the dragon, a young family is determined to protect young chick dragons who are orphaned from the infamous Dragonsbane Knights. This mysterious group has resurfaced and these slayers of dragons have one thing on their minds, and that is to slay any dragon left on the planet. Daniel, Beatrice and their parents move to a cottage near Dragonsbrook. The young chick they protect named Torcher is introduced to Erasmus, a dragon who must teach Torcher and the children the dragon ways. Erasmus, a very dignified and unsympathetic dragon, is not very fond of humans and Beatrice finds that his methods of teaching cause her much frustration. When Erasmus leaves Torcher alone in the woods to shed his skin he doesn't return. Beatrice believes Torcher has been taken by a basilisk, a shape shifting animal that eats anything and everything possible. These creatures were thought to be a myth. With the new threat of an old enemy, the Dragonsbane Knights, the battle begins against the Secret and Ancient Society of Dragons and the search for Torcher. The ultimate goal of the Dragonsbane Knights is to acquire a piece of treasure called the Dragons Claw, which clutches the world's largest uncut diamond and wields more power than can be imagined. It's the ultimate dragon slayer weapon. Young readers will find this tale of dragons mesmerizing. Steer has done an excellent job of creating characters with history and depth. Illustrated pictures can be found throughout the book to give readers the perfect imagery of this unique realm. The Dragon's Apprentice is the third book in the series, in the back of this tale is a list from Steer of his entire Dragonology series. Young readers can follow along and escape into the world of dragons. ( )