How to Twist a Dragon's Tale: The Heroic Misadventures of Hiccup the Viking (How to Train Your Dragon)
#5 of 12 in How to Train Your Dragon Series
on Goodreads (11,635)
What’s inside...
Don't miss an action-packed, hilarious, heart-warming moment of the New York Times bestselling series that inspired the hit movies! The heat is on for Hiccup! Someone has stolen the Fires-Stone from Volcano Island, which means the Volcano has become active and the tremors are hatching the Eggs of Exterminator Dragons! Can Hiccup return the Fire-Stone to the Volcano, stop it from erupting, and save the Tribes from being wiped out by the terrible sword-claws of the Exterminators? This fifth adventure in the How to Train Your Dragon series is packed with the action, humor, heart, and remarkable illustrations that have made Cressida Cowell a beloved bestseller around the globe.
Character compass
Hiccup Horrendous Haddock Iii
Camicazi
Toothless
Fishlegs
Alvin the Treacherous
Humongously Hotshot
Hiccup
Gobber The Belch
Stoick The Vast
Discussion points
What do you think motivates Hiccup in his adventures? How can you apply this motivation to your own challenges?
How do the relationships between the characters change throughout the story? What does this teach us about friendship and trust?
How does Hiccup handle his fears and failures? What can we learn from his resilience?
What role do the dragons play in the story? How do they affect the Viking world and their beliefs?
If you could have a dragon, what kind would you choose and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Cultivate empathy by discussing how different characters might feel in various situations in the book and why.
Encourage critical thinking by asking what your child would do differently if they were in Hiccup's place during key moments.
Highlight the value of perseverance by talking about how Hiccup overcomes obstacles and what we can learn from his determination.
Boost imagination by having your child invent their own dragon, describing its abilities and how they would train it.
Promote making connections by relating the story's themes of friendship and courage to your child's personal experiences.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Courage in the face of adversity
Explanation: Hiccup shows bravery as he confronts challenges and threats from dragons. His courage helps him to navigate difficult situations and emerge as a leader.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to face their fears and tackle obstacles head-on, whether it’s standing up to a bully, trying out for a sports team, or speaking in front of their class.
Example Lesson: The importance of friendship and teamwork
Explanation: Throughout the book, Hiccup relies on his friends and learns the value of working together to overcome obstacles. This teamwork is crucial in their victories.
Real-World Application: Kids can apply this lesson by collaborating with their peers in school projects, sports, or other group activities, understanding that together they can achieve more.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving and creativity
Explanation: Hiccup often uses his wit and inventiveness to get out of tricky situations, demonstrating that strength isn’t the only path to success.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to think creatively in their daily challenges, using their intellect and imagination to find unique solutions.
Example Lesson: Resilience and perseverance
Explanation: Despite numerous setbacks, Hiccup remains determined and doesn’t give up on his goals, teaching persistence.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to keep trying and not be disheartened by failure, whether it’s while learning a new skill or improving in their academics.
Example Lesson: Embracing individuality
Explanation: Hiccup’s unconventional methods and characteristics make him stand out, but they also turn out to be his greatest strengths.
Real-World Application: Children learn the significance of embracing their unique traits and that being different can be a source of strength and not a weakness.