The only problem with this novel (apart from the parentheses) is the difficulty with the fictional memoir format itself. The reader is constantly jolted back from the younger Isabella' thoughts when the older Isabella feels the need to butt in and explain something. Furthermore, being only in Isabella's head prevents the reader from really getting much more than a passing glance of the other potentially interesting characters.
Nevertheless, the endearing geekery of the narrator, the mystery element to the story and the occasional glimpses of dragons keep you hooked enough. It's an enjoyable read and I would particularly recommend it to teenagers who, besides enjoying the story, might even be inspired enough to take up natural sciences. This book could have been called "How to Dissect Your Dragon."
The novel is published on the 5th of February 2013.
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