Dare We Be Dragons?
on Goodreads (10)
What’s inside...
A powerful and poetic imaginative adventure from the creator of Alone, shortlisted for the Waterstones Children’s Book Prize! This joyful, rhyming adventure story invites readers into a world where ordinary, everyday objects become gateways to wild and wonderful worlds. Tree trunks transform into giants’ legs, a playground swing becomes a space rocket, and a grassy hill morphs into a towering volcano. The perfect book to inspire imaginative play, created by the author of Alone, also shortlisted for the Waterstones Children’s Book Prize 2022.
Age
3-6
Length
40 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What did you think about the adventures the dragons went on? How would you feel if you were in their place?
The dragons in the book each had unique talents. Which dragon's talent did you like the most, and why?
Why is teamwork important in the story, and how do the dragons help each other?
How did the challenges the dragons faced change them by the end of the book?
If you could add another adventure for the dragons, what would it be and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the book by asking them which part they enjoyed most and why.
Connect the story to real-life scenarios by discussing times when teamwork helped solve a problem, enhancing the message from the book.
Ask your child to draw their favorite dragon and explain what special powers it possesses, fostering a deeper connection to the character's abilities and traits.
Create a fun activity by imagining and discussing what kind of adventures they could go on if they were one of the dragons in the book.
Highlight the moral lessons in the story, and discuss how the dragons’ experiences can relate to your child's own life and the importance of embracing one’s unique qualities.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Embracing Individuality
Explanation: The book 'Dare We Be Dragons?' showcases various characters who are unique and different, celebrating their own special traits.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate and embrace their own uniqueness and the differences of others in their daily interactions at school and in playgroups.
Example Lesson: Courage to Try New Things
Explanation: The storyline encourages characters to venture into new experiences, even if they might seem daunting at first.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to be open to trying new activities or subjects at school, helping them expand their horizons and discover new passions.
Example Lesson: Value of Friendship
Explanation: As the characters in the book form bonds and tackle challenges together, the story highlights the importance of friendship and cooperation.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of building and maintaining friendships, and how teamwork can help solve problems they face in school or during play.
Example Lesson: Perseverance Amid Challenges
Explanation: The characters often face obstacles but persist until they overcome them, demonstrating resilience.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of perseverance when faced with their own challenges, whether in completing a difficult task or learning a new skill.
Example Lesson: Imagination and Creativity
Explanation: The fantastical elements and creative scenarios in 'Dare We Be Dragons?' spark imagination.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to use their creativity in their playtime, projects, and in expressing themselves artistically and verbally.