Both seasoned Pernophiles and newcomers to McCaffrey's Dragonriders of Pern series will delight in this lovingly crafted, helpful companion to the novels. Filled with fascinating bits of information gleaned from the books and from McCaffrey herself, the handsome, well-illustrated oversize guide is intended to help readers visualize the setting and background for the Pern saga; indeed, it succeeds beautifully. From the exploration and settling of the planet, the native flora and fauna (including the dragonets), and the appearance and behavior of the deadly Thread, to the genetic engineering, care, feeding, and training of the telepathic dragons and a rundown on each hold, weyr, and hall (structure, history, daily life, leisure activities, government), this volume captures and explicates the essence of Pern. A must for collections where the series has an audience. --Sally Estes

Sure to be a hit with the many fans of McCaffrey's mythical world of Pern. All sf collections will need it.-- MR (c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.