Though [Dragondrums] stands alone, those familiar with characters and setting from the author's Dragonsong … and Dragonsinger … will enjoy it more. In the first two-thirds of the book, the plot is tightly filled with Piemur's adventures, whereas later the pace shifts to a slower, though still compelling, one concerned with survival. Structurally this breaks the plot, but suspense and continuity are nevertheless maintained through McCaffrey's ability to weave deft characterizations and a good story. (p. 1493)

Barbara Elleman, "Children's Books: 'Dragondrums'," in Booklist (reprinted by permission of the American Library Association; copyright 1979 by the American Library Association), Vol. 75, No. 19, June 1, 1979, pp. 1492-93.