Four boys experience individual adventures in space and time when they explore a deserted old house. Attracted to a jigsaw puzzle lying on a dust-covered table, each boy obeys an irresistible urge to put the puzzle together. As the last piece goes into place and completes one of the four dragons pictured on the cover, each boy is suddenly transported to another time and place, where he bears a different name and identity, and becomes deeply involved in a dangerous adventure…. Legend, fantasy, and historical and contemporary situations are interwoven in [Dragon Magic]. Despite the wealth and range of dragon lore and legendry, the story has clarity and immediacy; and the values of courage, loyalty, and strength met in the past help each boy meet problems of the present. Those who read this book may well find themselves seeking eagerly—as did the four adventurers—the hero tales and legends in the library. (p. 373)

The plot of [The Crystal Gryphon] adds up to more intrigue and spells and pseudo-medieval dialogue than [its] expressionless protagonists can support. One would like to know more about the past/present world of Ulm, but a little less plot and some evidence that the author possesses a sense of humor would have made Kerovan more fully human. (p. 948)

Kirkus Reviews (copyright © 1972 The Kirkus Service, Inc.), August 15, 1972.