Kender

Kender are a fictional humanoid race from the Dragonlance fantasy setting, created by Margaret Weis and Tracy Hickman. They first appeared in The Chronicles and have since featured in novels, role-playing game materials, and other media set on the world of Krynn. Kender are renowned for their insatiable curiosity, fearless nature, and a distinctive tendency toward kleptomania. They are generally portrayed as friendly, talkative, and highly social, often forming quick bonds with friends and strangers alike.

Physically, kender are small and agile, typically shorter than humans, with bright eyes and an energetic bearing. Their clothing is colorful and practical, often with belts or pouches that reflect their habit of carrying and exchanging objects they encounter on their travels. They are said to have a strong sense of adventure and a willingness to face danger that other races might avoid.

Culturally, kender emphasize personal relationships and exploration over strict property rights. They tend to treat objects as potential gifts or tools rather than strictly owned possessions, a worldview that can lead to misunderstandings with other races who value property and boundaries more highly. Despite their reputation for stealing, many kender remain loyal friends and allies, and their curiosity can help parties discover paths they might not consider on their own.

In Dragonlance fiction, Tasslehoff Burrfoot is the most famous kender, serving as a companion to various groups of adventurers. Kender commonly appear in stories as travelers and helpers, bringing both comic relief and resourcefulness to the narrative.

Kender have also appeared as a playable race in Dragonlance-related role-playing games, with traits that reflect their courage, sociability, and distinctive approach to possession and discovery.