Kendermore

Overview

Kendermore is the second novel in the Dragonlance Preludes series, focusing on what happens to Tasslehoff Burrfoot before the companions reunite in Dragons of Autumn Twilight. Unlike many Dragonlance novels that focus on knights, mages, or war, Kendermore dives into the vibrant and eccentric world of kender society, giving fans a deeper (and funnier) look at one of Krynn’s most misunderstood races.

While it’s filled with comedy and light-hearted chaos, Kendermore also explores themes of identity, family obligation, and friendship, and lets Tas show off his cleverness and courage—without ever giving up his kender charm.

Main Character: Tasslehoff Burrfoot

• A kender adventurer, full of curiosity, fearlessness, and complete disregard for personal property laws (not a thief—he just finds things).
• Famous for his topknot, hoopak, and incessant storytelling.
• Though often dismissed as comic relief, this book shows Tas as resourceful, loyal, and more perceptive than he lets on.

Supporting Characters

• Earwig Lockpicker – A fellow kender and old friend of Tas, with a flair for trouble and trickery.
• Damaris Burrfoot – Tas’s “betrothed”, according to his family—though Tas has no memory of agreeing to marry anyone.
• Trapspringer Burrfoot – Tas’s legendary (possibly imaginary?) uncle, often referenced in tales—finally makes an appearance here.
• Philomy – A tough, no-nonsense dwarf jailer who ends up aiding Tas.
• The Magus – A mysterious, threatening villain who seeks a magical artifact Tasslehoff “borrowed.”

Setting

• Begins in Solace, but quickly shifts to Kendermore, the hidden and bustling capital of kender civilization.
• Kendermore is described as chaotic, colorful, and curiously structured, with a blend of childlike wonder and terrifying efficiency (especially in gossip, matchmaking, and “borrowing”).

Plot Summary

The Trouble Begins

Tasslehoff is kidnapped—yes, kidnapped—from Solace by a group of kender intent on returning him to Kendermore. Why?

Because he’s scheduled to get married.

Tas, of course, is horrified by this “arranged” engagement, which he insists he never agreed to. But in Kendermore, family and tradition carry weight—even if the traditions are hilariously convoluted.

Return to Kendermore

Back in his homeland, Tas is swept up in kender society, facing pressure to fulfill his supposed duties, including marrying Damaris, who isn’t exactly thrilled herself.

At the same time, an evil mage known as The Magus is searching for a powerful magical item that Tas may or may not have accidentally picked up at some point during his travels.

As the plot unfolds, Tas gets:

• Imprisoned (briefly)
• Sentenced to community storytelling
• Pursued by villains
• Saved by friends
• And caught between his love for freedom and his roots in Kendermore

The Escape and the Choice

The final act involves a dramatic chase through Kendermore, magical traps, and a surprisingly intense confrontation with The Magus.

In the end, Tasslehoff:

• Outwits his enemies
• Saves his friends
• And most importantly, escapes marriage—but not without making peace with his family and his past.

He leaves Kendermore with a better understanding of who he is, and why being a kender isn’t just about silliness—it’s about heart.

Themes

• Freedom vs. Obligation – Tas must balance his wanderlust with his responsibilities to family and community.
• Identity and Heritage – Returning to Kendermore forces Tas to confront where he came from, even if he doesn’t want to stay.
• Friendship and Loyalty – Despite his flaws, Tas shows real courage and loyalty when it matters most.
• Satire of Bureaucracy and Tradition – The novel playfully mocks overly complex systems and societal expectations (especially through the absurd rules of Kendermore).

Tone & Style

• Light-hearted and comedic, with a strong narrative voice that captures Tas’s quirky worldview.
• Fast-paced, full of funny detours and charming side characters.
• Occasionally slips into genuine emotion and character depth, especially in moments where Tas realizes he may not belong anywhere.
• Blends classic quest fantasy with a kender-flavored twist—expect the unexpected.

Reception

Kendermore is a fan-favorite among readers who love:

• Tasslehoff Burrfoot
• Kender culture and humor
• And stories that don’t take themselves too seriously, but still deliver meaningful character moments

Readers praise it for:

• Bringing real dimension to a character often used for comic relief
• Expanding the lore of kender society
• Being a fun, satisfying standalone story

Critics sometimes note that:

• The plot can feel whimsical to the point of chaotic
• Non-kender fans might not connect as deeply with the tone

But overall, it’s considered a strong entry in the Preludes line.

Final Thoughts

Kendermore is a charming, funny, and unexpectedly poignant look at Tasslehoff Burrfoot’s life before the War of the Lance. It’s a story about being true to yourself, even when the world (or your family) tries to write your story for you.

Recommended for:

• Fans of Tasslehoff and lighthearted fantasy
• Readers interested in exploring kender lore
• Anyone looking for a fun, character-driven standalone adventure

“He wasn’t lost. He just hadn’t decided where he was going yet.”