Many cultures tell stories about dragon-like creatures—some are fearsome and others are surprisingly friendly. This gloriously illustrated compendium celebrates them all!
Featuring snappy summaries of famous myths and surprising facts drawn from historical sources, Dragons Around the World is the ultimate reference book for dragon fans the world over.
Discover China’s lucky Long dragon and Japan’s pearl-clasping Ryujin, among other super serpents including the many-headed Hydra from ancient Greece and St. Jordi’s fearsome match, Drac.
Author Sally Nicholls has drawn research from the British Library’s extensive cultural archives and her own intrepid travels to write about a global cast of dragons from a range of cultures and locations. A showcase at the back of the book traces each dragon’s cultural origins through museum objects featuring dragons. Brought to life through the exquisite illustrations of Maria Francesca Melis, this book is a must-have for fans of dragons and mythology.
Contributors
Sally Nicholls
Author
Sally A. Nicholls is a picture researcher and editor who works for History Today. Follow her on Instagram @nicholls_sally.
Maria Francesca Melis
Author
Maria Francesca Melis is an illustrator, designer, and photographer who splits her time between her native Sicily in Italy and New Zealand. Melis is a shortlisted artist in the 2025 World Illustration Awards. Follow her on Instagram @mfrancescamelis.
