Ancient, Strange, and Lovely (The Dragon Chronicles)
#4 of 30 in Dragonology Chronicles Series
on Goodreads (460)
What’s inside...
In a futuristic, polluted world, fourteen-year-old Bryn discovers a hatched ancient egg and realizes she is caring for a baby dragon. As the dragon becomes an Internet sensation, Bryn must protect him from poachers and those who wish him harm, while trying to find a safe place for something so ancient in a world that has no place for it. This standalone addition to Susan Fletcher’s Dragon Chronicles series, Ancient, Strange, and Lovely, puts a modern twist on a timeless genre.
Character compass
Bryn Mccallan
Eoin
Discussion points
What do you think about Bryn's relationship with the dragon, and how did it change throughout the story?
How did the settings in the book, like the forest and the cave, affect the mood and actions of the characters?
What are some ways the characters show courage or fearlessness in tough situations?
How does the author use the dragons to explore themes like coexistence and mutual understanding between different beings?
Can you think of any ways that the characters' experiences in the book relate to real-life issues or challenges?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use open-ended questions that encourage critical thinking and personal connections, rather than simple yes/no questions.
Highlight the development of relationships in the story to discuss empathy and understanding with your child.
Discuss the mythological elements in the book, and encourage your child to share any mythical creatures or stories they find fascinating.
Explore the theme of courage by asking your child about times they had to be brave and relate it to the characters’ experiences.
Encourage your child to visualize the scenes by asking them to describe what they imagine the forest, cave, or a dragon looks like.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of empathy and understanding
Explanation: Through the protagonist, Bryn, and her relationship with an ancient dragon, readers see the importance of understanding and empathizing with creatures and people who are different from oneself.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to embrace diversity and show compassion towards people with different backgrounds and experiences in their own lives.
Example Lesson: The value of perseverance
Explanation: Bryn faces numerous challenges in her quest to protect the dragon. Her determination and refusal to give up teaches the importance of perseverance in achieving one’s goals.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to persist in facing their own challenges, whether it be in school, sports, or personal goals.
Example Lesson: Responsibility towards the environment
Explanation: The story highlights the impact of human activities on wildlife through the endangered status of the dragon. It emphasizes the responsibility humans have towards preserving nature.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to take part in environmentally friendly practices like recycling, conserving water, and participating in community clean-up days.
Example Lesson: The power of curiosity and learning
Explanation: Bryn’s curiosity about the dragon and her relentless pursuit of knowledge about these mystical creatures underscore the importance of learning and exploring new ideas.
Real-World Application: This could motivate children to be inquisitive and explore various subjects of interest in their studies and everyday encounters.
Example Lesson: Courage in the face of fear
Explanation: Despite the dangers involved, Bryn bravely seeks to save the dragon, illustrating how courage can enable individuals to confront and overcome their fears.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to face their own fears and understand that bravery is not the absence of fear, but the ability to act despite it.