Set in Scotland, this quirky tale is very much about a dragon and its mystery and magic, but even more so about Angus Og and his young wife, Matilda. Angus Og is as stubborn as an ox and as fierce as a dragon in battle, but he has a soft spot when it comes to his wife. He’s pleased when he inherits new lands and a castle from his uncle and Matilda quickly transforms the smelly dank halls into a comfortable home. There really isn’t much Matilda cannot do. Angus Og is less pleased about the resident dragon who eats a bullock every couple of weeks. When Matilda befriends the lonely dragon a battle of wills over the dragon’s fate ensues.
Godden writes with her tongue firmly in her cheek, blending legend, history, and fiction. It’s a charming story aimed at a younger audience but it will bring a smile to anyone who appreciates the dynamics of married life.
This book was a fabulous charity shop find and came with a mysterious photo, torn in half, that I assume was used as a bookmark. It’s beautifully illustrated and a treat to page through. A good start to the reading-year.
‘She had embroidered a red cushion for Angus Og’s great chair but she would not let him tear his meat with his hands; he had to cut it with his horn-handled knife as did all who sat at table in the great hall, “And you will please not throw your bones over your shoulder on to the floor for the dogs,” said Matilda.
“How will the poor things eat?” roared Angus Og.
[…]
For the first time in his life Angus Og felt what it was like to wear slippers.
“Isn’t it comfortable?” asked Matilda.
It was wonderfully comfortable. “But it doesn’t become me,” growled Angus Og.
“It does,” said Matilda and, indeed… as he sat in his great chair by the fire, he looked a different man with a smile in his eyes and a soft look on his face… and [he] pulled the ears of his
favourite wolf-hound Brag, but gently, gently.’
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Thank you for visiting the Wild Library blog. You’ll find more book recommendations and reviews on my Reading List.
Happy reading,
Chantelle
Wild Library 