Calling on dragons

Calling on Dragons was published in 1993 as the third installment in the Enchanted Forest Chronicles by Patricia C. Wrede. Emerging from the fantasy boom of the late 1980s and early 1990s, the series was conceived as a lighthearted subversion of classic fairy tale tropes, focusing on Princess Cimorene, a protagonist who rejects traditional expectations of royalty in favor of working for dragons. The narrative maintains a tone that is both witty and adventurous, reflecting Wrede’s interest in deconstructing gender roles within the high fantasy genre.

The cover art and character design for the series, often featuring illustrations by Diane Goode, played a significant role in establishing the whimsical yet grounded identity of the collection. The series was designed to appeal to middle-grade readers, and it was received favorably by critics for its humor and narrative clarity. It remains a staple of young adult fantasy literature, valued for its enduring influence on modern subversions of traditional folklore and its consistent world-building throughout the four-book cycle.