The Golden Door Book Review

Book Title: The Golden Door

Author: Emily Rodda

Publish Date: 2013
Publisher: Scholastic

Series: Golden Door Trilogy

The Golden Door by Emily Rodda

Suggested Grade: 5th & 6th grade

Suggested Format: Independent reading

Synopsis: 

"Three magic Doors
you here behold.
Time to choose:

Wood? Silver? Gold?"

Rye lives a normal life in the city of Weld, or at least as normal a life as anyone can live in a walled city with no gates, no way out, and flying dragons that attack at nighttime. The attacks are getting so bad that the governor is asking for volunteers to leave the city in search of where these attacks are coming from. Fortunately, Rye is too young to be considered for such things. Unfortunately, both of his older brothers are.
When his brothers are declared dead because they have been missing for too long, Rye takes it upon himself to go searching for them, in secret. Standing before three doors, Rye has a decision to make. What door will take him to his brothers in time to rescue them?

Teacher's Notes: 
A fun, fast-paced tale, this is a great introduction to a world where dragons and enemies are more complex than "How to Train Your Dragon", but less violent than some more adult fantasy tales. There is a bit of violence and even death in the book, but it is treated in a respectful manner mindful of the age of readers. I would suggest that teachers or parents consider holding off on this book for students who might not have the maturity to deal with death as portrayed in the story. There is no gore or needless violence, which is what helps it rate so high in my book. Rye learns many lessons in this book, including the true meaning of courage, and when to rely on friends and family for assistance. The end of the book will leave your students wanting to read more!

Overall: 9/10
A perfect introduction to the world of fantasy.

How I Got the Book: Purchased for my personal collection

Suggested Interests: Fantasy, fiction