Bookwyrm
A Bookwyrm is a small dragon which prefers books and scrolls to coin and treasure.
Basic Information
Anatomy
One of the smallest forms of dragon, the bookwyrm's body is about the size of a squirrel's, though its wingspan and tail make it appear larger. It is slender and serpentine, and has long, dextrous fingers with retractible claws. Its scales lie flat and are smooth to the touch, and most bookwyrms also sport fur around their jaws and along their spines, as well as on the pads of their feet. They are no warmer than any other creature, having no fire in their bellies.
Genetics and Reproduction
Bookwyrms reproduce in clutches of 2-3. Their eggs can be recognized from their small size and the papery texture of the shell.
Ecology and Habitats
They can be found in libraries partly because their diet and size make them effective pest control, and partly because these dragons enjoy book-smell more than any other sensation.
Dietary Needs and Habits
These dragons feed on insects (especially moths and carpenter ants) and small animals (such as mice). They consume their prey whole, leaving no mess.
Civilization and Culture
Naming Traditions
In addition to classically-draconic names, many Bookwyrms name their young after the heroes of their favourite stories.
Culture and Cultural Heritage
Stories, true and fictional, are prized among all other treasure in a bookwyrm's hoard. Oral relations are compelling, but the rereading capacity of a written record makes books, tablets, and scrolls preferable to most. Constantly hungry for new stories, most wyrms are willing to trade a well-worn tome for a fresh tale.
Common Taboos
"Dog-earing," as well as neglectful treatment of books causing illegibility, are reprehensible offenses to nearly all bookwyrms.
History
The exact origins of Bookwyrms are unknown, and unfortunately for inquisitive minds, the story has undergone millennia of the "telephone game" among the wyrms themselves. Bahamut did not create them, though he accepts them as True Dragons. Tiamat could not be reached for comment.
Scales of Justice cover by Bob Eggleton
Genetic Ancestor(s)
Scientific Name
liber draconis
Origin/Ancestry
Dragon
Geographic Distribution