At this moment in time, somebody, somewhere is probably writing a new story featuring a dragon. Dragons are out there, bumping into unicorns, hassling princesses, and causing havoc all over the place. Here are some old and newish stories about this popular and appealingly dangerous creature. Some have been known to be friendly….
George and the Dragon Written and illustrated by Chris Wormell c2002 Alfred A. Knopf / Random House : New York
George, a mouse, has just moved in to a new neighborhood. He has simple needs, a restoring cup of tea being one of them. Alas, he has yet to shop and supply himself with sugar. A request to the fearsome dragon next door sets off a surprising chain of events. This boldly illustrated picture book is completely satisfying for ages 4 and up.
The Knight and the Dragon Written and illustrated by Tomie dePaola c 1980 G.P. Putnam and Sons Books for Young Readers : New York
A knight and a dragon have never met each other in combat. Perhaps a visit to the library will provide some useful guidance. This book is just right for listeners ages 3-6. I always enjoy a plug for library usage skillfully incorporated into a story. Nicely done here, Mr. dePaola.
The Reluctant Dragon by Kenneth Grahame Originally published short story included in Grahame’s Dream Days story collection. c1898 In this edition the story stands alone. c1938 by Holiday House Illustrated by Ernest H. Shepard
This could be one of the first stories about a peace loving dragon. Mr. Grahame’s dragon prefers a desultory chat and poetry recitation with the “Boy” who befriends him to battling St. George, but the townsfolk will not be satisfied until they witness a good old-fashioned fight. E.H. Shepard’s illustrations are delightful, as always. What do you expect from the man who brought us the map of the Hundred Acre Wood and pictures of Toad, Ratty, Mole, Badger and friends?
My Father’s Dragon by Ruth Stiles Gannet c1948 Random House : New York Illustrated by Ruth Chrisman Gannett
The story of Elmer Elevator, who upon hearing of a young dragon being held captive on Wild Island, heads off to the rescue with his trusty backpack full of useful items. This is a good first chapter book for readers not quite ready for hundreds of pages. It is also a wonderful read aloud choice. For more adventures with Elmer, two sequels: Elmer and the Dragon, and The Dragons of Blueland follow. This trio always appeared at book fairs.
Tales from Moominvalley by Tove Jansson c1962 Illustrated by the author This editon c2010 Square Fish an imprint of Macmillan : New York
The Last Dragon in the World is a story from this collection of tales about creatures who frequent Moominvalley. Moomintroll and his best friend Snufkin and a tiny, fire breathing dragon are featured on the book cover. If you are looking for a story about true friendship to read to children, you will not find a more sympathetic one than this. Moomintroll finds a tiny dragon, perhaps the last one in the entire world, and wants to have it for a pet. The dragon, every tiny morsel of which is fierce and merciless, has other ideas. Here are the author’s words as Moomintroll prepares to tell his friend he has found a dragon:
“Snufkin gave him a sharp look and saw that Moomintroll was about to burst from delight and suspense. So he replied quite curtly: “I don’t believe it.”
“Possibly it would be no bigger than a matchbox even if it could spit fire all right,” Moomintroll continued with a yawn.
“Well, that’s pure fantasy, of course,” said Snufkin, who knew how surprises are prepared.
And then Moomintroll jumped to his feet and cried: “I’ve found it! I’ve found a real dragon of my own!”
While they walked up to the house, Snufkin went through the whole scale of disbelief, astonishment, and wonder. He was perfect.”
What if the dragon prefers another? True friendship hangs in the balance, find out how Snufkin proves he is true.
The Last Dragonslayer by Jasper Fforde c2010 in Great Britian First US edition c2012 Houghton Mifflin : New York
Jennifer Strange is a teenager living in the Ununited Kingdom. She is in charge of Kazam Mystical Arts Management and her task is finding employment for Wizard Moobin, Lady Mawgon, and other out of work magicians. Her job is made difficult because magic is drying up, one could read about it in the Hereford Daily Eyestrain. Changes are in the air. Jennifer begins having dreams about dragons. Maltcassion, the last living dragon’s death is predicted, and once the Dragonlands are vacant, developers are poised to move in. The Last Dragonslayer will have to come up with a plan for the future, whoever she might be.
Jasper Fforde is a masterful funny writer. His alternative United Kingdom is full of cleverness, but also believable characters you will enjoy and really like. There are more books in this series, but The Last Dragonslayer is just fine on its own! For young adult to adult readers.
