A thrilling debut novel where fantasy and science fiction meet, dragons aren't as innocent as they look, and nothing is quite what it seems. Anne has spent most of her thirteen years dreaming of the day she and her best friend Penelope will finally leave Saint Lupin's Institute for Perpetually Wicked and Hideously Unattractive Children. When the big day arrives, a series of very curious happenings lead to Anne being charged with an epic quest. Anne, Penelope, and new questing partner Hiro have only days to travel to strange new locales, solve myriad riddles, and triumph over monstrous foes--or face the horrible consequences. Packed with action, humor, and endless heart, this debut novel marks the first volume in an irresistible and original fantasy series.

Get ready for dragons, robots, and an even more dangerous quest in this hilarious, unputdownable sequel to The Adventurer's Guide to Successful Escapes. Anne, Penelope, and Hiro are nominated for Best Illegal Quest That Nearly Destroyed the Entire World at the annual Quest Academy Awards, but they barely get to enjoy it before a strange boy tricks Anne into activating a new quest. Her charge: kill the dragon queen. The problem is, Anne doesn't want to kill any dragons. But the mysterious boy does, even if it means igniting a devastating war between people and dragons. The only chance Anne and the others have to stop it is to get to the queen first. Along the way, they'll have to navigate ancient mines, avoid erupting volcanoes, outsmart robots, and survive the dragon trials. And, of course, get a passing grade on their quest. Packed with action, humor, and endless heart, this is a truly irresistible middle grade fantasy tale.

While relating five experiences such as climbing the Matterhorn or living with the headhunters, the author offers hints for striking out on one's own.

An accomplished adventurer presents why you need adventure in your life, its spiritual mechanics, and the worldview most amenable to outdoor and foreign endeavors, whatever the mode of travel. Topics include how to organize, develop courage, navigate, and defend yourself. Equally applicable to wilderness trips and international travel, over-nighters and multi-year voyages, it advises the prospective nest-leaver on how to face crucial tests and get the most out of a life-changing experience. Most humorously, it includes cautionary notes on some startling pitfalls, all of which the author has himself suffered.

Essential information for would-be adventurers of all ages. Learn how to identify booby traps, fend off a gang of swordsmen, decipher hieroglyphs and lost languages, and escape the wrath of God.