title: Mysteries of the Komodo Dragon: The Biggest, Deadliest Lizard Gives Up Its Secrets
author: Marty Crump
description: Gr 4-7There's nothing like a toothy, bulky, 10-foot-long lizard with deadly saliva to arouse readers' interest. While Crump's lively text does not supply a stage-by-stage description of the animal's life cycle and physiology, it does give enough data to satisfy many readers and researchers. More importantly, it follows a long-term research project into the chemical makeup of dragon drool and the possible practical applications of the chemicals in this deadly substance to human pharmacology. Clear, color photos depict dragons from hatchlings to adults, scientists hiding in blinds and weighing catches, and zookeepers cuddling dragons with gentle dispositions. Conservation efforts underway to protect this rare and threatened species are included. A range of topics appears in the addenda, including the dragon's life cycle, the use of its forked tongue as an environment tester, dragon conservation status, and survival programs. A surefire selection in terms of appeal and information.Patricia Manning, formerly at Eastchester Public Library, NY(c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
zlib_text:   
  
  “At least they’re not real dragons,” Rig said, relaxing a little. His eyes
  darted back and forth between the two creatures blocking the exit of the
  cavern.
  
  The beasts flicked their barbed tails, flexed the claws on their hind feet,
  and took a step closer. Two sets of large, pear-shaped eyes bored down into
  the trapped adventurers. The motion of the creatures’ leathery wings sent the
  sand on the cave floor rushing away.
  
  “Wyverns,” Palin noted.
  
  “The _brown_ dragons my lizard friend mentioned,” Peril said.
  
  “I’ve never seen anything like them,” said Blister, a hint of awe creeping
  into her voice.
  
  “They’re not nearly as big as the thing that killed Shaon,” said Rig. “I can
  take them.”
  
  “Take what?” one of the wyverns growled. “Something steal? Mad be master.”
  
  “Mad be Storm Over Krynn when comes!” exclaimed the other.
  
  The Storm Over Krynn, Palin mouthed. “This is Khellendros’s lair! We’ve got to
  get out of here!”
  
  ![](Images/image00158.jpeg)
  
    
  
  **THE DAY OF THE TEMPEST**
  
    
  
  ![