The newly released trailer teases an exciting fantasy adventure marked with courage, character, and determination – values that have defined the Scouting movement for more than a century. Featuring endorsements from Bear Grylls, Max Lucado, and Mike Rowe, along with early coverage from People and the New York Sun, the trailer arrives just a month ahead of the book’s nationwide release on May 5, 2026, kicking off the Order of the Dragon Slayer series.
“Stories like George Goodwin, Dragon Slayer help inspire the next generation to live with bravery and purpose,” said Roger Krone, president & CEO of Scouting America. “At Scouting America, we believe in the power of storytelling to shape character, spark imagination, and reinforce the values that guide Scouts on their journey to leadership and service.”
New York Times bestselling authors Candace Lee and Eric Newman shared their enthusiasm for both the story and the trailer launch:
“We all have dragons to slay. Our hope is that George’s story becomes a fire starter for young imaginations,” said Lee. “If we can deliver a summer read that makes our readers feel brave and ready to become the heroes our world needs, then we have done our jobs as authors.”
“The characters in our story face impossible odds,” added Newman. “Just like so many young people do today. George Goodwin and his friends each show epic displays of courage and character, but more than anything, they have fun! It’s like Goonies with dragons. That’s why we made our characters Scouts: You’ll have a hard time finding kids as resilient, daring, and fun as the young people in the Scout movement.”
Scouting America has long recognized the importance of literature and storytelling in youth development, using stories to encourage imagination, reflection, and personal growth. The upcoming release of George Goodwin, Dragon Slayer marks a new opportunity to engage young audiences and inviting them into a story where courage is tested, character is formed, and heroes are made.
Watch the official trailer here.
George Goodwin, Dragon Slayer will be available nationwide wherever books are sold on May 5, 2026, and is currently available for preorder at www.scoutinglegend.com.
For more information about Scouting America and its mission, visit www.scouting.org.
Publication Information
George Goodwin, Dragon Slayer: A Scouting Legend
Order of the Dragon Slayer, Book 1
By Candace Lee & Eric Newman, Foreword by Bear Grylls
Published by WaterBrook Children’s, an imprint of Random House Children’s Books
On sale May 5, 2026 | Ages 8-12 | 336 Pages
Hardcover | ISBN 978-0-59-360275-1 | US $14.99
Ebook | ISBN 978-0-59-360276-8 | US $8.99
Audio | ISBN 979-8-21-733802-3 | US $20.00
ScoutingLegend.com