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Yden #1
Jon Hansen and the Dragon Clan of Yden
This edition is out of print, for the new revised edition see The Last Great Wizard of Yden.
Jon Hansen is a seemingly ordinary, artistically inclined teen who lives in a Southern California beach community. On his 16th birthday, he witnesses the mysterious disappearance of his father in a flash of light and a sound like muffled thunder. Jon thinks his father has been kidnapped, but no one believes him. He'd always figured his father's amazing stories about a fantastic planet in a parallel universe were just fairy tales. But when Jon discovers his father's magical transporter cuff, he begins a trans-dimensional journey that changes his life forever. With the help of three unlikely school friends and a beautiful warrior princess he rescues on Yden, Jon embarks on a quest to free his father from the clutches of the evil Wolf Clan wizard Efysian. Along the way, Jon discovers his own special kind of magic, matches wits with an ambitious and ruthless Warlord and reunites with the reclusive Dragon Clan grandfather he never knew he had. Ultimately, Jon fights for his own life as he battles the fearsome Wolf Clan wizard who is draining the magic from Yden.
Jon Hansen and the Dragon Clan of Yden provides a wonderful escape to a place where dragons are drawn and come to life off a sheet of paper, where one can think of a place and instantly be transported there and where good triumphs over evil-even when it appears like victory is against all odds. Full of fast-paced action, witty dialogue and unforgettable characters, Jon Hansen and the Dragon Clan of Yden gives us a hero for our times. Recommended for ages 12 and up.
Jon Hansen is a seemingly ordinary, artistically inclined teen who lives in a Southern California beach community. On his 16th birthday, he witnesses the mysterious disappearance of his father in a flash of light and a sound like muffled thunder. Jon thinks his father has been kidnapped, but no one believes him. He'd always figured his father's amazing stories about a fantastic planet in a parallel universe were just fairy tales. But when Jon discovers his father's magical transporter cuff, he begins a trans-dimensional journey that changes his life forever. With the help of three unlikely school friends and a beautiful warrior princess he rescues on Yden, Jon embarks on a quest to free his father from the clutches of the evil Wolf Clan wizard Efysian. Along the way, Jon discovers his own special kind of magic, matches wits with an ambitious and ruthless Warlord and reunites with the reclusive Dragon Clan grandfather he never knew he had. Ultimately, Jon fights for his own life as he battles the fearsome Wolf Clan wizard who is draining the magic from Yden.
Jon Hansen and the Dragon Clan of Yden provides a wonderful escape to a place where dragons are drawn and come to life off a sheet of paper, where one can think of a place and instantly be transported there and where good triumphs over evil-even when it appears like victory is against all odds. Full of fast-paced action, witty dialogue and unforgettable characters, Jon Hansen and the Dragon Clan of Yden gives us a hero for our times. Recommended for ages 12 and up.
288 pages, Paperback
First published April 13, 2010
26 people are currently reading
1456 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
June 29, 2013
This is an awesome YA fantasy book that adults will enjoy also! When I started reading this book, I was immediately drawn into Jon’s life. I really enjoyed his relationship with his sister. It’s been a long time since I have read a book where siblings are shown in such a positive light. Jon, like so many teens, is trying to make new friends, deal with a bully and get his driver’s license. His character is one that so many readers can relate to on one level or another. The characters were very believable and the story kept moving at a fantastic pace. I highly recommend this book.
July 2, 2013
A WONDERFUL, WONDERFUL READ!
An artist, a cheerleader, a geek, and a bully walk into a. . . No, it’s not a bar joke. This unlikely group of teens, together with a nomad from another planet, join together to rescue kidnapped Yrth (Earth, to us) citizens from the magical world of Yden. In the process, they have to learn to think way outside of the proverbial box, to depend on themselves and each other, and to overcome both magic and magicians.
The premise is great; the writing is better. The suspense is mellowed by S.G.Rogers’ fabulous sense of humor. I read the book in a day, simply because I didn’t want to stop. Luckily, I’ve already downloaded the second book in the series. Oh, no! What will I do when I’ve finished THAT one?
***I received this book free of charge, in return for an honest review.***
An artist, a cheerleader, a geek, and a bully walk into a. . . No, it’s not a bar joke. This unlikely group of teens, together with a nomad from another planet, join together to rescue kidnapped Yrth (Earth, to us) citizens from the magical world of Yden. In the process, they have to learn to think way outside of the proverbial box, to depend on themselves and each other, and to overcome both magic and magicians.
The premise is great; the writing is better. The suspense is mellowed by S.G.Rogers’ fabulous sense of humor. I read the book in a day, simply because I didn’t want to stop. Luckily, I’ve already downloaded the second book in the series. Oh, no! What will I do when I’ve finished THAT one?
***I received this book free of charge, in return for an honest review.***
October 9, 2012
This YA fantasy novel was the best book I've read in a long, long time. I enjoyed it from beginning to end. Admittedly, I'm a fan of fantasy, but I'm also a fan of good writing. This book caught my attention right away. I loved the characterization (which is a vitally important key for me to REALLY like a book). I thought the creativity, humor, action, suspense, setting, and combination of terrific characters (bad guys and good) were so well done that I couldn't wait to start up where I left off. I will definitely be reading more of S. G. Rogers' books...as a matter of fact, I can't wait to get my hands on more. What a terrific book!
September 30, 2010
I enjoyed this book. My attention was quickly gotten and kept throughout the story. I could imagine further stories being developed from this book. It is a story that I was sorry to see end.
November 7, 2011
In "The Last Great Wizard of Yden", S. G. Rogers spins a page-turning tale that combines reality and fantasy. The hero, Jon Hansen, is an average kid, with an average life, who expresses his world through art. When his father is kidnapped, he stumbles upon a family secret that tests his strength and faith in himself. Jon decides it's up to him to find his father which throws his average life out the door and into a life-threatening adventure filled with wizards and imps. In this incredible journey of enchantment, S. G. Rogers addresses the challenges of being sixteen and to what lengths you would go to for family. Each of her characters have unique talents that add dimension to the story. Rogers has done a magnificent job with character-development. The conflicts she throws at her characters take real-life grit to solve. She's a master of settings. This book has everything and I give it six stars on a five-star scale.
October 23, 2010
I felt quite lucky to win this book through GoodReads. It is a very good YA story and is interesting enough to hold the attention of fully adult readers as well. The plot moves quickly and includes some surprises. It is definitely a page turner and is difficult to put down once reading has begun. I would hope to see sequels that could even follow through the main character's adulthood. Bravo S>G>Rogers on a job well done.
June 7, 2013
First I would like to thank goodreads and author S.G.Rogers for allowing me to win this book. I received this book for free through Goodreads First Reads. It was quite enjoyable. The story moved well and the characters were relatable and well-developed. In fact, the characterization is a big plus in this book, which is filled with drama, magic,humor and a little romance thrown in for good measure. The story itself was well thought out and engaging. :)
October 22, 2010
Rating: 5/5
Reason: … This book is so well written and the characters are genius! S.G. Rogers did such a fantastic job of this story. And lucky me that I am, I actually won my own copy on GoodReads, thank goodness!! No waiting to read it! Well…. maybe a little bit, but not that long because the postal system is simply outstanding in their delivery times – I have nothing but good things to say about those folks, too! I so love the characters, the world, and how much of a genius S.G. Rogers is to think up a horrible, brilliant character like Elfysian…. I absolutely must get to the story, now.
I think most people would have described me as a normal, ordinary kid before my dad disappeared. When I say that he “disappeared,” I mean that literally. He vanished in a flash of light, with a sound like distant thunder. And because I was the only witness, I automatically became the suspect. That sort of suspicion tends to make you edgy, especially when you’ve just turned sixteen.
The above excerpt was how the story opened, and it totally grabbed my attention and made me curious about what happened next and what this story was all about; this is just what a good writer can accomplish quite easily with openings such as this. From reading the book’s summary on Goodreads, I was pretty sure I’d like it. However….. I was unaware of just how much I would… heck, I’d found out how many pages there were and was thinking “That doesn’t seem long enough to encompass everything mentioned in the summary.” Oh but it was, and it wasn’t rushed at all. When you read it for yourself, you will see what I mean and be equally impressed by this writer’s skill. Here’s a few of the things from the book that I especially liked:
The ring and transporter cuff Jon needed to be wearing at the same time so that he could transport himself.
The fact that his drawing something while wearing Ophelia (his dragon ring) made it become real.
The whole idea of Yden.
The fact that those who live in Yden think of “Yrth” as a sort of Hell, seeing as it has no magic.
The delightful evilness that is Elfysian.
Before I go giving away most of the book (including the ending), I’ll stop here. The story follows Jon’s father disappearing, his going to Yden the first time, going to a public school instead of the art one he’d been going to before, having this Nomad princess and a drained wizard coming to warn him about Elfysian and the rest (as they say) is history. Of course, you’ll have to read the book so you actually know this history, but hey, reading is good for you. If asked if I’m going to lend it to friends so they can read it, the answer is “Of course!” And to say that I’m greatly excited about the idea of a sequel is an understatement of epic proportions. Of course, I was told a little while ago (by the author) that she’s working on book three. At the time, she was working on the last chapter, if my memory serves me correctly.
It is so wonderful in this day and age to be able to communicate directly with authors whom one admires, and that amidst all that writing and creating, they still make time for their readers and respond so kindly.
Reason: … This book is so well written and the characters are genius! S.G. Rogers did such a fantastic job of this story. And lucky me that I am, I actually won my own copy on GoodReads, thank goodness!! No waiting to read it! Well…. maybe a little bit, but not that long because the postal system is simply outstanding in their delivery times – I have nothing but good things to say about those folks, too! I so love the characters, the world, and how much of a genius S.G. Rogers is to think up a horrible, brilliant character like Elfysian…. I absolutely must get to the story, now.
I think most people would have described me as a normal, ordinary kid before my dad disappeared. When I say that he “disappeared,” I mean that literally. He vanished in a flash of light, with a sound like distant thunder. And because I was the only witness, I automatically became the suspect. That sort of suspicion tends to make you edgy, especially when you’ve just turned sixteen.
The above excerpt was how the story opened, and it totally grabbed my attention and made me curious about what happened next and what this story was all about; this is just what a good writer can accomplish quite easily with openings such as this. From reading the book’s summary on Goodreads, I was pretty sure I’d like it. However….. I was unaware of just how much I would… heck, I’d found out how many pages there were and was thinking “That doesn’t seem long enough to encompass everything mentioned in the summary.” Oh but it was, and it wasn’t rushed at all. When you read it for yourself, you will see what I mean and be equally impressed by this writer’s skill. Here’s a few of the things from the book that I especially liked:
The ring and transporter cuff Jon needed to be wearing at the same time so that he could transport himself.
The fact that his drawing something while wearing Ophelia (his dragon ring) made it become real.
The whole idea of Yden.
The fact that those who live in Yden think of “Yrth” as a sort of Hell, seeing as it has no magic.
The delightful evilness that is Elfysian.
Before I go giving away most of the book (including the ending), I’ll stop here. The story follows Jon’s father disappearing, his going to Yden the first time, going to a public school instead of the art one he’d been going to before, having this Nomad princess and a drained wizard coming to warn him about Elfysian and the rest (as they say) is history. Of course, you’ll have to read the book so you actually know this history, but hey, reading is good for you. If asked if I’m going to lend it to friends so they can read it, the answer is “Of course!” And to say that I’m greatly excited about the idea of a sequel is an understatement of epic proportions. Of course, I was told a little while ago (by the author) that she’s working on book three. At the time, she was working on the last chapter, if my memory serves me correctly.
It is so wonderful in this day and age to be able to communicate directly with authors whom one admires, and that amidst all that writing and creating, they still make time for their readers and respond so kindly.
June 21, 2012
Magic and Mystery collided right from the first sentence. This book promises an adventure and what an adventure it was!
The book opens with Jon Hansen trying to explain what he saw / heard to a policeman of his father’s disappearance. His story though was just too unbelievable to the police. When he drew what he saw… it became utterly too much for the police.
The news of his father’s disappearance spread pretty quickly and Jon had to face all the kids at school calling him all sorts of names. Where did his father actually go? If the police or any of the adults aren’t going do anything about it, then it’s up to him alone.
Assisted by his wily sister, Sela, Jon started to investigate his father’s past. What he found, though, was just too unreal until… the day he arrived at Yden. He was obviously an outsider and had to work out how things work in Yden to be able to look for his father.
What he didn’t expect though was being followed back home. By those who needed his help but also wanted to help him. With help from unexpected quarters, Jon returned to Yden to defeat the wizard Efysian in order to save his father.
The beginning just grabbed your attention and I expected it to be fast paced but it slowed right down for the part that Jon was sort of just figuring things out. Most of the time on Earth, I felt, was pretty slow but I love it in Yden.
I love the multicultural Yden. I even like the evil Warlord! The truly evil villain though was Efysian whose vision was to rule the world *shocking! LOL*. The best bit of Yden, of course, was the dragons!! I wish there were more of them in the book.
Jon’s power was totally cool! And I really like the familial relationship of the Hansens (what a great family!). I have to say though that my favourite character is a minor, Fred Spencer. I really like it that he’s not what he seems and that S.G. Rogers used him as the comic relief.
“Mmm,” Fred grunted.
Casey glanced over his shoulder to discover Fred’s eyes were squeezed shut and he seemed a little green. “Are you afraid of heights?” he asked.
“No,” Fred said. “I’m not afraid of anything.”
“Then what’s wrong?”
“Carsick.”
“You should open your eyes,” Casey said. “It’ll help.”
“If you don’t want barf down your back, leave me alone,” Fred muttered.
Casey fell silent for a few moments.
“Look, Fred, a pepperoni pizza bush!” he exclaimed.
Fred’s eyes popped open and he looked around. “Where?”
He paused. “Gee, Casey, that was cruel.”
“Are you still carsick?”
“Er…no. Hey, you were right!”
Overall, a totally enjoyable ride err… I meant read. It could have been totally epic but noting the intended audience, a great fun book for the young ‘uns :) I mean c’mon, there are gorgeous dragons, cool magic, evil wizards, otherworldly creatures, friendships and funnies!
Source: e-Copy received via Astraea Press Book Club for an honest review
The book opens with Jon Hansen trying to explain what he saw / heard to a policeman of his father’s disappearance. His story though was just too unbelievable to the police. When he drew what he saw… it became utterly too much for the police.
The news of his father’s disappearance spread pretty quickly and Jon had to face all the kids at school calling him all sorts of names. Where did his father actually go? If the police or any of the adults aren’t going do anything about it, then it’s up to him alone.
Assisted by his wily sister, Sela, Jon started to investigate his father’s past. What he found, though, was just too unreal until… the day he arrived at Yden. He was obviously an outsider and had to work out how things work in Yden to be able to look for his father.
What he didn’t expect though was being followed back home. By those who needed his help but also wanted to help him. With help from unexpected quarters, Jon returned to Yden to defeat the wizard Efysian in order to save his father.
The beginning just grabbed your attention and I expected it to be fast paced but it slowed right down for the part that Jon was sort of just figuring things out. Most of the time on Earth, I felt, was pretty slow but I love it in Yden.
I love the multicultural Yden. I even like the evil Warlord! The truly evil villain though was Efysian whose vision was to rule the world *shocking! LOL*. The best bit of Yden, of course, was the dragons!! I wish there were more of them in the book.
Jon’s power was totally cool! And I really like the familial relationship of the Hansens (what a great family!). I have to say though that my favourite character is a minor, Fred Spencer. I really like it that he’s not what he seems and that S.G. Rogers used him as the comic relief.
“Mmm,” Fred grunted.
Casey glanced over his shoulder to discover Fred’s eyes were squeezed shut and he seemed a little green. “Are you afraid of heights?” he asked.
“No,” Fred said. “I’m not afraid of anything.”
“Then what’s wrong?”
“Carsick.”
“You should open your eyes,” Casey said. “It’ll help.”
“If you don’t want barf down your back, leave me alone,” Fred muttered.
Casey fell silent for a few moments.
“Look, Fred, a pepperoni pizza bush!” he exclaimed.
Fred’s eyes popped open and he looked around. “Where?”
He paused. “Gee, Casey, that was cruel.”
“Are you still carsick?”
“Er…no. Hey, you were right!”
Overall, a totally enjoyable ride err… I meant read. It could have been totally epic but noting the intended audience, a great fun book for the young ‘uns :) I mean c’mon, there are gorgeous dragons, cool magic, evil wizards, otherworldly creatures, friendships and funnies!
Source: e-Copy received via Astraea Press Book Club for an honest review
October 26, 2010
Jon Hansen has a good relationship with his family. He is very close with his father and for his birthday he wants to go to a baseball game. They are all ready to go when his dad remembers that he forgot something. He runs back into the house while Jon waits for him. Jon thinking his father has taken a long time goes to find him. What Jon hears is his father struggling with someone and a bright flash of light. But he cannot find his father.
Jon spends the next weeks being drilled by family memebers, police and peers. He is made fun of and put down and is ready for the school season to be over. During the summer he and his sister think of places his father could have disappeared to. They remember an old bedtime story their father used to tell them about another dimension called Yden, pronounced Eden.
Finding clues in his fathers work room and using the ring his father left him, he transports himself to Yden. There he encounters many obsticles: Friends, enemies and his father. His father has been trapped by an evil Wolf clan wizard and now Jon and some friends he has made along the way help him to save his father from being drained.
This story is very Harry Potterish. There are love triangles, friendship and school together with evil that must be overcome. Children from 7+ would love this book with its high adventure, page turning action, wonderful fantasy, and characters you wont forget.
If you are looking for a book for kids who love fantasy stories this one is for them. They wont be able to put it down and the story never misses a beat! It will keep people reading for hours. Very well written. Hope this author makes more books in this land. I will be reading them.
I won this through goodreads first reads. A very big thank you to them and author S.G. Rogers for my delightful copy of "Jon Hansen and the Dragon Clan of Yden."
Jon spends the next weeks being drilled by family memebers, police and peers. He is made fun of and put down and is ready for the school season to be over. During the summer he and his sister think of places his father could have disappeared to. They remember an old bedtime story their father used to tell them about another dimension called Yden, pronounced Eden.
Finding clues in his fathers work room and using the ring his father left him, he transports himself to Yden. There he encounters many obsticles: Friends, enemies and his father. His father has been trapped by an evil Wolf clan wizard and now Jon and some friends he has made along the way help him to save his father from being drained.
This story is very Harry Potterish. There are love triangles, friendship and school together with evil that must be overcome. Children from 7+ would love this book with its high adventure, page turning action, wonderful fantasy, and characters you wont forget.
If you are looking for a book for kids who love fantasy stories this one is for them. They wont be able to put it down and the story never misses a beat! It will keep people reading for hours. Very well written. Hope this author makes more books in this land. I will be reading them.
I won this through goodreads first reads. A very big thank you to them and author S.G. Rogers for my delightful copy of "Jon Hansen and the Dragon Clan of Yden."
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 8, 2013
His 16th birthday had been the most horrible day of Jon Hansen's life, but things were about to get worse.
The ring - His father vanished when he went to retrieve the ring for Jon's birthday. When Jon puts the ring on, he notices that it is more than a simple ring!
The cuff - He found in his father's things after his father vanished.
The ring/cuff combo - transports Jon into an unfamiliar world. Jon and his younger sister, Sela, didn't know that all the fantasy stories their father told them about Yden were in fact true.
First trip to Yden... Jon is mistaken for a vagrant, chased by the cygards, and barely escapes. How he can he rescue his father when he can barely rescue himself?
Now that his father is gone, money is tight. So Jon transfers from Pacific Prep to the public school... Pacific High. While shopping for clothes for school he meets a pretty girl, Brett and finds out she goes to his new school. He also makes a new friend at his new school, Casey Scott. Things would be looking up if his arch-enemy, Fred, hadn't also transferred to public school.
Second trip to Yden... Jon finds himself in the dungeon with a woman warrior, Kira Szul, and is able to free them both using his magical powers.
While serving Detention together, Fred and Jon save an old man and a young woman from a burning car. Jon immediately recognizes Kira Szul and Dorsit from Yden. And his life has just become more complicated...
When Jon returns to Yden the third time he has an entire posse with him... Brett has been kidnapped by Efysian, the evil wizard who is holding Jon's dad captive, and taken to Yden. Jon returns with Casey, Kira, and Fred to rescue her. Dragons, evil wizards, a girlfriend AND a father that need saving...
The ring - His father vanished when he went to retrieve the ring for Jon's birthday. When Jon puts the ring on, he notices that it is more than a simple ring!
The cuff - He found in his father's things after his father vanished.
The ring/cuff combo - transports Jon into an unfamiliar world. Jon and his younger sister, Sela, didn't know that all the fantasy stories their father told them about Yden were in fact true.
First trip to Yden... Jon is mistaken for a vagrant, chased by the cygards, and barely escapes. How he can he rescue his father when he can barely rescue himself?
Now that his father is gone, money is tight. So Jon transfers from Pacific Prep to the public school... Pacific High. While shopping for clothes for school he meets a pretty girl, Brett and finds out she goes to his new school. He also makes a new friend at his new school, Casey Scott. Things would be looking up if his arch-enemy, Fred, hadn't also transferred to public school.
Second trip to Yden... Jon finds himself in the dungeon with a woman warrior, Kira Szul, and is able to free them both using his magical powers.
While serving Detention together, Fred and Jon save an old man and a young woman from a burning car. Jon immediately recognizes Kira Szul and Dorsit from Yden. And his life has just become more complicated...
When Jon returns to Yden the third time he has an entire posse with him... Brett has been kidnapped by Efysian, the evil wizard who is holding Jon's dad captive, and taken to Yden. Jon returns with Casey, Kira, and Fred to rescue her. Dragons, evil wizards, a girlfriend AND a father that need saving...
March 11, 2012
On his sixteenth birthday, Jon finds out a family secret when his father is kidnapped or rather disappears before his eyes. His father leaves behind a magical dragon ring that unlocks a world in another dimension. However, when Jon uses this ring, it draws the attention of an evil wizard bent on eliminating all wizards and ruling Yden. The wizard transports to Earth and kidnaps one of Jon’s friends. Jon, a few of his classmates, and a warrior princess, who knows how to brandish a sword, set out on a quest that takes them to Yden. Jon learns more about the magic he wields and about his father legacy he left behind when he decided to live on Earth. The unlikely heroes fight for their lives as they try to rescue the last great wizard of Yden.
Dragons, wizards and magic what an adventure! The Last Great Wizard of Yden is a YA fantasy, but adults will find it just as enjoyable. Jon and his friends with their humor and lively banter and sometimes down right bickering made this story believable. Rogers did an excellent job creating a magical fantasy world you’ll want to visit over and over again.
Karen Michelle Nutt, author of the Warriors for the Light fallen angels series
Reviewed for PNR Paranormal Reviews
Dragons, wizards and magic what an adventure! The Last Great Wizard of Yden is a YA fantasy, but adults will find it just as enjoyable. Jon and his friends with their humor and lively banter and sometimes down right bickering made this story believable. Rogers did an excellent job creating a magical fantasy world you’ll want to visit over and over again.
Karen Michelle Nutt, author of the Warriors for the Light fallen angels series
Reviewed for PNR Paranormal Reviews
July 7, 2013
Jon's father vanishes right before him and Jon is determined to find him. With a dragon ring he names Ophelia and an arm cuff to help him on his mission, Jon sets off to locate his father and find out exactly why his father left unexpectantly. Entering another dimension, Jon brings along his friends as they meet up with some creatures they have only read or dreamt about. Dragons, wizards, and magical feats are what awaits for you on Yden. They are met with the good and the bad on Yden as they learn the history of their ancestors and they meet the people who make up the habitats. As the teens travel between the two worlds, they unite as a group and they must come together if they are to succeed.
I loved the imaginary of this book. I could imagine being a teen and traveling between the two worlds and what that would be like. The author did an excellent job with the details of the book and the dialogue between the characters as they traveled between the worlds. A great fantasy book but yet also have that fiction feel to it. A great mix of characters with their own personalities too. It was such a great book, I continued onto the next book in the series before writing a review, which I never do. Great job!
I received this book in exchange for an honest opinion.
I loved the imaginary of this book. I could imagine being a teen and traveling between the two worlds and what that would be like. The author did an excellent job with the details of the book and the dialogue between the characters as they traveled between the worlds. A great fantasy book but yet also have that fiction feel to it. A great mix of characters with their own personalities too. It was such a great book, I continued onto the next book in the series before writing a review, which I never do. Great job!
I received this book in exchange for an honest opinion.
September 8, 2012
This is really a fantastic book! The dogged persistence from a friend who insisted I had to read this novel, I kind of had my doubts because it seemed to me this was going to be another Harry Potter-like book, which I really wasn’t in the mood for. I reluctantly started reading it, and soon found myself lost in a gorgeous new world full of magic, wondrous beings and breathtaking landscapes.
I have to admit that early on in the book I was already smitten with the characters and deeply entangled in the imaginative storyline. I was constantly surprised by the author’s creativity and in awe of Yden and its inhabitants – good and bad. I was touched by the friendship formed between strangers and enemies and had a few good laughs at the banter between Jon and his ragtag group of friends.
Magic, dragons, mystical creatures, colorful backdrops and an evil black wolf whose name made me giggle every time I read it; it often reminded me of a movie I used to watch as a kid, titled ‘The Never-ending Story”. S.G. Rogers has expertly crafted an ingenious masterpiece which transports the reader away from reality into a world that will enrapture readers of all ages. Highly recommended!
I have to admit that early on in the book I was already smitten with the characters and deeply entangled in the imaginative storyline. I was constantly surprised by the author’s creativity and in awe of Yden and its inhabitants – good and bad. I was touched by the friendship formed between strangers and enemies and had a few good laughs at the banter between Jon and his ragtag group of friends.
Magic, dragons, mystical creatures, colorful backdrops and an evil black wolf whose name made me giggle every time I read it; it often reminded me of a movie I used to watch as a kid, titled ‘The Never-ending Story”. S.G. Rogers has expertly crafted an ingenious masterpiece which transports the reader away from reality into a world that will enrapture readers of all ages. Highly recommended!
July 3, 2012
On Jon Hansen's sixteenth birthday, his father mysteriously disappears, but no one believes Jon's claim to have seen someone kidnap him. In fact, a media leak makes Jon into a laughingstock at his school, drawing the wrath of the school bully.
When the family heirloom he received on his birthday turns out to have magical powers, Jon soon finds himself the target of a wizard's greed for absolute power. Jon, along with a handful of friends and one bully, transport to an alternate dimension and undertake to rescue Jon's father and save Yden from vicious warlords and one evil wizard.
Rogers wove an amazing and intricate world, a world that captures the imagination and leads it on a quest for adventure. The characters, though they come from a variety of backgrounds, meld together so well, one cannot imagine the story without any one of them.
Well-written and intriguing full length novel. I didn't want to put this book down until it was done. It is a fantastic and fun read for young and old alike, anyone who likes to use their imagination while reading. Loved it
When the family heirloom he received on his birthday turns out to have magical powers, Jon soon finds himself the target of a wizard's greed for absolute power. Jon, along with a handful of friends and one bully, transport to an alternate dimension and undertake to rescue Jon's father and save Yden from vicious warlords and one evil wizard.
Rogers wove an amazing and intricate world, a world that captures the imagination and leads it on a quest for adventure. The characters, though they come from a variety of backgrounds, meld together so well, one cannot imagine the story without any one of them.
Well-written and intriguing full length novel. I didn't want to put this book down until it was done. It is a fantastic and fun read for young and old alike, anyone who likes to use their imagination while reading. Loved it
June 21, 2013
THE LAST GREAT WIZARD OF YDEN grabs you with the very first sentence and doesn't let go ! The main character, Jon, is really believable as an imaginative and artistic teenager who has a close relationship with his family, including his younger sister and his JAG Corps uncle. Running through the story is every boy's eagerness to get his driver's license, to drive his uncle's jeep and to have friends at school. When Jon's dad disappears in a flash of light on Jon's 16th birthday, he becomes the unwitting target of the tabloid media and the school bully. He also receives an heirloom ring, which he names Ophelia. As Jon begins to investigate his dad's disappearance, the ring takes on a role of its own. Through Ophelia and an arm cuff Jon found in his dad's office, he and his friends are transported to an alternate universe where a powerful wizard rules through fear and brutality. Jon's life is forever changed as he and his small group of friends learn about loyalty and courage in some very strange and wonderful places in the land of Yden.
April 13, 2012
Who do I think would like this book?: While reading The Last Great Wizard of Yden, I imagined myself as a middle schooler or young High School student. Back then I was reading books like C.S. Lewis’ Narnia series and The Hobbit, by J.R.R. Tolkien. While I wouldn’t put the The Last Great Wizard of Yden on the same level, I know I would have enjoyed reading it very much and been anxious to read further adventures in the series. It’s a great read for boys or girls. That said, even as an adult I enjoyed it!
What was the best part? Hands down, Jon Hansen’s (the main character's) special ability. I can’t tell you what it is. You need to read the book. All I can say is that it’s really cool (I honestly do use words like “cool” a lot), and if you’re at all artistic you’ll especially love it.
What was the best part? Hands down, Jon Hansen’s (the main character's) special ability. I can’t tell you what it is. You need to read the book. All I can say is that it’s really cool (I honestly do use words like “cool” a lot), and if you’re at all artistic you’ll especially love it.
September 11, 2010
Entertaining tale of Jon who prepares to celebrate his 16th birthday as an ordinary teen when he is swept into an unbelievable adventure. Jon's father mysteriously disappears from his home office and slowly clues emerge that awaken Jon to the legacy that is his while he deals with the typical teen angst over making new friends, dealing with bullies, passing his driver's test, oh, and rescuing his father from an alternate universe. Nice combination of normal teen interactions on Yrth juxtaposed with imaginative elements (the newtics are particularly entertaining) on Yden.
October 24, 2011
This is a great YA fantasy! I highly enjoyed it and found the characters to be very believable and the magical system is really well constructed and interesting. The parts that take place at home really ground the characters and the story---especially Jon's family. Then when it all moves to the incredible world of Yden, we are right on board! Love the strong female characters in particular. I can't wait to read more--gotta know what little sister Sela is capable of as well! Highly recommend for YA readers and for adults who want a fun read.
February 3, 2012
When I started reading The Last Great Wizard of Yden I was instantly transported into the life of Jon Hansen. On his 16th birthday his father vanished before his eyes like in a magic show. With his world turned upside down Jon begins his search into his fathers mysterious past. With the help of his sister and his friends Jon finds out his father is from a different world where magic is real. I really enjoyed following Jon on his journey of discovery and look forward to reading more books from this wonderful author!
February 18, 2012
Anyone from tweens to adults will enjoy this "coming of age" adventure infused with magic, wizards, creatures and a hero who finds himself in a mysterious alternative reality. When Jon Hansen's father mysteriously disappears, he must figure out how and why -- with the help of an heirloom ring, cuff and some loyal friends. Ms. Rogers' imagination gives all the elements a freshness, especially in Jon's talent for drawing, and provides some great twists in the story. A definite *MUST* for any YA reader. Enjoy!
August 28, 2010
Aimed at the young adult audience, "Jon Hansen and the Dragon Clan of Yden" is a wonderful story about four teens and their adventures in the magical world of Yden. Both young adults and adults will enjoy this fantasy, involving the search for Jon's father, the discovery of Jon's magical powers and the exploration of the land of Yden. Those I know who have read "Jon Hansen and the Dragon Clan of Yden", say it is unlike any other book or genre they have read before. Well worth exploring!
September 11, 2010
I got this book for free through Goodreads First Reads, and it was a really fun book! It was full of adventure, action, and magic, and I found it to be a very enjoyable read. I really liked all the characters and thought the author did a great job on the dynamics between them all. Hope that a sequel (or perhaps a prequel that tells Jon's dad's story) is written and I'll be recommending this book to my fantasy-loving friends.
May 1, 2013
How can Jon possibly save his father, when he doesn’t have the first clue what to do with his burgeoning powers? You’ll have to read to find out.
Though marketed toward teenaged YA reading audiences, S.G. Rogers’ The Last Great Wizard of Yden is delightful little novel with a mixture of high, urban fantasy, and YA fantasy elements that I think any fan of the genres will enjoy. I know I did! In fact, I really enjoyed it and can’t say that enough (I really, really, really liked it!)
June 24, 2012
This was a fun, fast-paced epic fantasy for young adults. It is very nice to see a true YA epic fantasy as dark and paranormal fantasies seem to be all the rage now. Rogers's writing draws the reader in immediately, and her world-building is excellent. The characters were rather stereotypical, but that is what made them so fun and endearing. I am glad this is only the first in a planned trilogy and I want to know more about the world of Yden.
June 27, 2012
This book was awesome. Definitely worthy of a series. It started out a bit slow as Jon was discovering the true nature of his heritage, but picked up speed as it went on. Realizing the bedtime stories his father told him as a child were true, Jon was thrust into an amazing adventure filled with evil wizards, dragons, imps and nymphs. If you loved Harry Potter, you'll definitely want to check out this great story!
September 24, 2010
I won this book from a Goodreads First Reads giveaway. What a fun, quick read! It was full of adventure and interesting characters and when it was over, I suddenly found myself wishing there was more with these characters I've grown so fond of. I'd definitely recommend it to anyone who enjoys a good adventurous fantasy.
March 3, 2012
A thoroughly enchanting and enjoyable story for both YA and Adults alike! I love how the author makes the world of Yden come to life with her detailed descriptions of all its many creatures and peoples. If you are a fan of wizards and sorcery then this is the book for you! I highly recommend The Last Great Wizard of Yden.
Lauren Hunter
Lauren Hunter
June 15, 2012
Jon's dad disappeared on his 16th birthday when he went into his office to retrieve a ring to give Jon. Jon's in for an adventure as he tries to figure out what happened to his dad. He and his friends discover a world of magic, wizards and dragons and Jon finds out the truth about himself and his father. This is a fun YA fantasy which is great for children and adults!
July 20, 2012
I am so very happy I won this book from Goodreads. This book is so well written. The characters were so real and compelling.The way S.G. Rogers write the story of Jons' coming of age and complexities of his family dynamics intertwined with the Wizards and magic makes it all seem so real and plausable. LOVE this book.
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