Who is Menolly? Why is she brought to Harpers Craft Hall by the Masterharper? What is Menolly expected to do at Harpers Craft Hall? Who was Petiron? Why do they call Menolly Petiron's lost apprentice? What is special about this title? What is unusual about assigning this name to Menolly?

Who is Masterharper Robinton? Why is he called Masterharper? What does the Masterharper do in Pern? What is the purpose of his job? Why has Masterharper Robinton taken Menolly under his wing? What does Masterharper Robinton hope Menolly can do for Pern?

What are fire lizards? How are they similar to dragons? How are they different? What do dragons do on Pern? What is between? How are dragons able to go here? Are fire lizards capable of traveling between? What else can fire lizards do? How do Menolly's fire lizards help her?

Why do...