Washington Post Book World
It's just not possible to stop turning the pages.
Publishers Weekly - Publisher's Weekly
Advance publicity hails this "story" (not labeled a novel) by the popular writer as appealing to "readers of all ages," although its genesis was in a story King told to his children. King's legion of fans are likely to find that a restrained maturity marks the differences between this stylish, successful effort at fantasy (illustrated by 21 half-tones) and his earlier, sometimes overwrought writings. Eyes details the crusade of Peter and Thomas, two princely brothers, to destroy the 400-year-old Flagg, the evil magician who threatens to control the kingdom of Delain after the death of their father, King Roland, who remained unwed until he was past 50. Flagg has imprisoned Peter, the heir apparent, on suspicion of murdering the king (actually it was Flagg who did it) and installed the profligate second son, an easier mark, on the throne. Surprisingly, Eyes is a gentle story, despite violence, gore and his standard vulgarity, because King has ingeniously interposed himself between reader and narrative as if he were telling the tale aloud, with a soothing cadence practically audible in the evocative prose. This heartwarming chronicle of brotherly love may be enjoyed by young adults and their parents.
School Library Journal
YA -- A fantasy set in the mythical kingdom of Delain. Aging King Roland is murdered by his court magician, who sees to it that the king's eldest son and heir, Peter, is blamed for the crime. Peter is imprisoned and his younger brother Thomas ascends to the throne. Thomas is easily manipulated by the evil magician, and the kingdom's last hope is Peterif he can escape from prison and set things right again. The Eyes of the Dragon starts out slowly, but, as in most of King's books, the pace speeds up steadily, building to an exciting and satisfying climax. While some King fans who want their favorite horror writer back might grumble, fantasy or adventure fans of more open mind will find The Eyes of the Dragon a thoroughly entertaining book.
From the Publisher
Memorable, suspenseful, brimming with action.”—Chicago Sun-Times
“King has done a masterful job…beautifully told and beautifully illustrated.”—The Cincinnati Post
“Compelling…his most powerful storytelling.”—The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
“Memorable, suspenseful, brimming with action.”—Chicago Sun-Times
“King has done a masterful job…beautifully told and beautifully illustrated.”—The Cincinnati Post
“Compelling…his most powerful storytelling.”—The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
“The sorcery of Stephen King…expertly seductive…the kind of book that keeps you up, red-eyed with fatigue, until 2 a.m., because it’s not possible to stop turning the pages.”—The Washington Post Book World
OCTOBER 2010 - AudioFile
Bronson Pinchot weaves the story of how Peter becomes the king of Delain, an unlikely event, given the scheming and plotting of an ancient and evil magician. Pinchot is a friendly storyteller whose easy manner affords great opportunity for contrast when the magician speaks in a tone that makes his evil intentions obvious. His menacing whisper may frighten young children—but teens will surely enjoy it. Pinchot presents the characters with subtle attention to their class and wit. His command of timing and pace helps to accentuate dramatic events and moments of strong emotion. He moves ahead in a quiet, disarming way until events reach out and grab the listener’s attention. J.E.M. © AudioFile 2010, Portland, Maine
