How to Train Your Dragon: Book 1
#1 of 12 in How to Train Your Dragon Series
on Goodreads (51,930)
What’s inside...
The story follows a young Viking boy named Hiccup as he embarks on a rite of passage: capturing and training a dragon. Through wit and unorthodox methods, Hiccup forges a bond with his dragon, Toothless, and learns valuable lessons in leadership, friendship, and courage. The book is a blend of humor and excitement, set in a mythical world filled with dragons and Viking traditions. Hiccup Horrendous Haddock III, the quiet and thoughtful son of the Chief of the Hairy Hooligans, tries to pass the important initiation test of his Viking clan by catching and training a dragon. Can Hiccup do it without being torn limb from limb? Join his adventures and misadventures as he finds a new way to train dragons--and becomes a hero. This action-packed, hilarious, and perfectly illustrated novel is a modern classic beloved by millions across the globe.
Character compass
Hiccup Horrendous Haddock Iii
Fishlegs
Toothless
Stoick The Vast
Gobber The Belch
Snotface Snotlout
Snotlout
Valhallarama
Hiccup
Thuggory
Mogadon the Meathead
Baggybum
Dogsbreath the Duhbrain
Discussion points
What traits make Hiccup a good leader? How does he show bravery and intelligence?
Why do you think it's important for Hiccup to understand and communicate with dragons? How would you approach a situation where you need to understand someone different from you?
What does the story teach us about friendship and teamwork? Can you share an instance when you had to work together with friends to solve a problem?
How do the other Vikings' views on strength and power differ from Hiccup’s? Which perspective do you agree with more, and why?
What can we learn from Hiccup's journey about overcoming fears and self-doubt?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage introspective thinking by asking your child to relate their personal experiences to Hiccup’s challenges and choices. Foster an interactive dialogue by asking them how they would act in Hiccup's place in various scenarios within the book. Highlight the importance of empathy and understanding by discussing the relationship between Hiccup and the dragons, and how communication can lead to friendship and trust. Emphasize the moral lessons of the story, such as the value of intelligence and bravery over brute strength.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Courage and Bravery
Explanation: The protagonist, Hiccup, demonstrates courage by facing fears and standing up to challenges despite feeling afraid. He chooses to train his dragon Toothless with kindness, differing from the traditional Viking ways.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this by learning to face their fears, whether it's trying new activities, standing up for what they believe in, or handling difficult situations with bravery.
Example Lesson: The Importance of Friendship
Explanation: Hiccup and Toothless develop a deep bond despite initial mistrust. Their friendship exemplifies loyalty, understanding, and mutual respect.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of building trust and cooperation with others, promoting strong, supportive relationships in their own lives.
Example Lesson: Innovation and Problem Solving
Explanation: Hiccup uses his intellect and creativity to train Toothless and find new methods that challenge the traditional ways of his Viking tribe.
Real-World Application: Children learn the significance of thinking outside the box and solving problems in innovative ways, encouraging them to apply creative thinking in their daily encounters.
Example Lesson: Acceptance of Differences
Explanation: The story highlights the acceptance of Toothless, who is different from the other dragons. Hiccup's embrace of these differences leads to success and acceptance in the tribe.
Real-World Application: This lesson urges children to embrace and celebrate differences in themselves and others, fostering an inclusive attitude towards all individuals.
Example Lesson: Leadership and Responsibility
Explanation: Hiccup inadvertently becomes a leader. He makes decisions with the welfare of his community in mind, highlighting responsible leadership.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to take initiative in leadership roles in group settings, and to consider the impacts of their decisions on others around them.