Dragon (Dirk Pitt #10)

“Dragon” is a very good and interesting adventure story authored by Clive Cussler and published in 1990. It is of medium length and is a fairly easy read. It is Mister Cussler’s 10th novel. I have read all ten, in order, with breaks in between, over the last few years. This may be my favorite thus far. But….

As Mister Cussler’s novels progress to this point, he has developed what I think of as a formula. The story starts in the past with an alternate version of history. Then he progresses to the future, ahead of the date of publication of the novel. In this case the past is 1945 and the furture is 1993 with the date of publication 1990. Now, of course, we are reading the novel when 1993 is the past. This can create an interesting reading experience.

Each of these ten novels do stand on their own. However there are ongoing characters and some occasional references to other stories, that mean more to someone who has read the previous novels. Also in this novel, Clive Cussler makes a very brief appearance, sort of a literary version of an “Alfred Hitchcock” moment. I found it humorous and it did not deter from the reading experience.

But….

There was a time in the late twentieth century when Japan seemed to be on its way to becoming the world’s premier economy. Since that time, Japan has had a period of economic stagnation. Now, in 2019, this novel appears to seem xenophobic with aspects of “Japan bashing”. The word for the people of Japan is compressed in this novel to a three letter contraction that was used during World War II. I cringe when I read that, but I do not believe in censorship. I use these reading experiences as a chance to reflect and learn.

In the event one chooses to read “Dragon”, one might enjoy following with the reading of a particular short story, “The Most Dangerous Game”, by Richard Connell. Clive Cussler has mentioned Richard Connell in interviews and I think this short story makes an interesting follow up.

In summary, I very much enjoyed this novel. I in no way, shape or form endorse xenophobia. There is no obscene language in this novel, but there is a term used repeatedly that is an unkind ethnic contraction that made me cringe every time I saw it. Speaking for myself, I simply use that as a moment for reflection and learning. If one can set that aside, this may be my favorite Clive Cussler novel of the first ten. Thank You…

Reading now, half way through. Great story as usual from Clive Cussler. He is one of the authors whose books I keep after sharing. No going into the book bin at the Goodwill Store. I must have over 40 of his so far – Sam & Remi, the Oregon Files, Dirk and Al, Kurt and Joe, Isaac Bell – series. I enjoy all of them.

A book for a person who likes to read books written by Clive Cussler. May He Rest In Peace. . . .

The early books are so much better
I am rereading all of the old books but they are not available on Kindle

I’m reading this now, and having a fine time of it! Cussler is always great!!

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