48 pages • 1 hour read
Dragonflight
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Book Brief
299
Novel • Fiction
Pern • Futuristic Fantasy World
1968
YA
14-18 years
940L
Super Short Summary
Dragonflight by Anne McCaffrey is set in the star system of Rukbat on the planet Pern, whose society now mirrors medieval Europe. The planet is threatened intermittently by the deadly Threads that fall from the Red Star. The dragonriders, who are tasked with defending Pern from the Threads, have fallen into disgrace due to the long absence of Thread attacks. F’lar, a dragonrider, finds Lessa at Ruatha Hold and brings her to Benden Weyr, where she becomes bonded with a queen dragon, Ramoth. Together, they restore the Weyrs' readiness, ultimately using time travel to bring reinforcements from the past to combat the looming Thread threat.
Adventurous
Inspirational
Fantastical
Romantic
Hopeful
Reviews & Readership
147,251 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Anne McCaffrey's Dragonflight garners praise for its imaginative world-building, compelling characters, and seamless blend of science fiction and fantasy elements. Critics laud its innovative concept of telepathic dragons. However, some find the pacing uneven and the romance elements underdeveloped. Overall, a groundbreaking work that captivates many readers.
Who Should Read Dragonflight?
A reader who enjoys Dragonflight by Anne McCaffrey typically appreciates epic science fiction with strong female protagonists, intricate world-building, and themes of camaraderie and survival. Fans of Frank Herbert's Dune or Ursula K. Le Guin's A Wizard of Earthsea would find this novel appealing.
147,251 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
F’lar
F’lar
A dragonrider and F’lar is the rider of Mnementh. He seeks a new Weyrwoman and becomes Weyrleader after Mnementh mates with Ramoth.
Fax
Fax
A ruthless Lord who conquers multiple Holds, including Ruatha. His oppressive rule affects several characters, including his wife Gemma and ultimately leads to his downfall.
F’nor
F’nor
Half-brother to F’lar, and rider of the brown dragon Canth. He serves as F’lar’s second-in-command and undertakes a crucial time-travel mission.
R’gul
R’gul
A former Weyrleader whose dragon Hath mated with the previous queen. After Lessa becomes Weyrwoman, he becomes a Wingleader, continuing to play a role in the fight against the Threads.
Kylara
Kylara
Initially a candidate for Weyrwoman who impresses the queen dragon Pridith. Known for her beauty and flirtatiousness, she becomes involved with F’nor in a plan to raise dragons in the past.
Robinton
Robinton
Masterharper of Pern who aids F’lar in gaining the support of the Holding Lords. He shares important historical knowledge that proves crucial in the fight against the Threads.
299
Novel • Fiction
Pern • Futuristic Fantasy World
1968
YA
14-18 years
940L
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