Dealing with Dragons
#1 of 4 in The Enchanted Forest Chronicles Series
on Goodreads (92,774)
What’s inside...
Determined not to be pushed into a marriage to a boring and proper prince, Princess Cimerone flees her kingdom and becomes an assistant to the dragon Kazul. As she adjusts to her new life, she encounters a cast of magical characters including a witch, a jinn, a deadly talking bird, a stone prince, and deceptive wizards. Cimorene's adventurous spirit finds her in the midst of excitement and danger, as she navigates her unconventional life with Kazul. Reprint with a new look and introduction from the author.
Character compass
Princess Cimorene
Alianora
Morwen
Kazul
Zemenar
Woraug
Prince Therandil
Antorell
Discussion points
How do you think Cimorene felt about not fitting into the traditional princess role? What would you do in her place?
Cimorene meets various characters who defy traditional roles throughout the book. Which character's story did you find most interesting or surprising?
Why do you think teamwork and friendship are important themes in the story? Can you share a personal experience where teamwork helped you?
How does the concept of 'dealing with dragons' reflect dealing with challenges in real life? What dragons have you faced?
What did you learn about choice and independence from Cimorene’s adventures?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and opinions about the story, ensuring a safe space for them to relate to the characters' feelings and actions.
Discuss the moral dilemmas faced by the characters and ask your child what they would do in similar situations, helping them apply the story’s lessons to their own life.
Highlight Cimorene’s unique qualities and discuss with your child the importance of embracing who they are, even if it means standing out from the crowd.
Use examples from the book to talk about courage, resourcefulness, and the importance of challenging societal expectations, fostering a sense of empowerment in your child.
After reading, engage in a creative activity like drawing or writing a short story together based on their favorite part or character, enhancing their connection to the book’s themes.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Independence and self-reliance
Explanation: The protagonist, Princess Cimorene, actively chooses her own path, refusing to conform to traditional princess roles. She opts to live with dragons and manages various challenges on her own.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to embrace their unique interests and make autonomous decisions, fostering a sense of self-confidence and independence.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving and critical thinking
Explanation: Throughout the book, Cimorene encounters various challenges, including dealing with wizards and managing the dragons' needs. She uses ingenuity and logic to find solutions.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to approach problems thoughtfully and creatively, enhancing their ability to think critically in diverse situations.
Example Lesson: Value of friendship and collaboration
Explanation: Cimorene builds friendships with other characters, such as the witch Morwen and the stone prince, who help her navigate the difficulties she faces.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of building supportive relationships and collaborating with others to overcome obstacles.
Example Lesson: Challenging stereotypes
Explanation: Cimorene challenges the traditional role expected of her as a princess and shows that girls can be adventurous, brave, and intellectually curious.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children understand and appreciate diversity in capabilities and interests, promoting inclusivity and self-acceptance.
Example Lesson: Courage to stand up against wrong
Explanation: Cimorene opposes the wizards' manipulative plans and takes action to thwart them, demonstrating moral courage and integrity.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the importance of standing up for what is right and encourages them to act ethically and responsibly in their own lives.