My Father's Dragon

Hello there! I’d like to share with you one of my very

favorite books for our youngest readers, although I truly don’t

think you can outgrow My Father’s Dragon by Ruth Stiles

Gannett. I came across this quote from C. S. Lewis today:

“No book is really worth reading at the age of ten which is not

equally (and often far more) worth reading at the age of fifty-”

Doesn’t that ring true! The best of children’s literature can

be enjoyed at any age. I believe I found My Father’s Dragon

just as delightful as my children did. We first listened to the

audiobook before enjoying the illustrations of Ruth Chrisman

Gannett, who happens to be the author’s mother-in-law.

Elmer Elevator is the hero of the tale, a young boy who

learns of an enslaved baby dragon on Wild Island. Traveling

there, he cleverly outsmarts the tigers, rhinoceros, lion, and

gorilla, who distrust trespassers and aim to keep the dragon on

the island forever. And don’t forget the crocodiles, who “are

very moody and not the least bit dependable, and are always

looking for something to eat.”

Talking animals, a wad of chewing gum, and a baby dragon

with blue and yellow stripes – what’s not to love? I hope you

get the chance to enjoy this classic if you haven’t already!

- Katy