This remarkable story tells of Lionel, a small boy who, to his great surprise, is made King. But this is just the start of his adventure. For when Lionel discovers the amazing Palace library and opens a book called The Book of Beasts, a Butterfly and a Blue Bird of Paradise fly out. But when he opens it again, he releases a wicked Red Dragon into his kingdom. Now it is up to Lionel to find a way to vanquish the Dragon and save his people. He knows the answer lies within The Book of Beasts, but what is it? And will he discover it in time? First published in 1900, this classic and substantial story has lost none of its charm and cannot help but enchant all who enter its pages.