November 7 – Tell the Truth, Dragon Book Tour Stop

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About the Holiday

I’m thrilled to be celebrating with Bianca Schulze, Samara Hardy, and Clever Publishing as they add a new book to the beloved Dragon series. They couldn’t have chosen a better time as November is not only Picture Book Month and Family Stories Month but also offers Family Literacy Day (Nov. 1), Book Lovers Day (Nov. 5), Young Readers Day (Nov. 8), and National Young Readers Week (Nov. 14 – 18). To make the most of all these special days, both kids and adults are encouraged to stock up on new books as gifts and for the snuggly fall and winter reading seasons! Today’s book is a great place to start!

I’d like to thank The Children’s Book Review and Bianca Schulze for sharing a digital copy of Tell the Truth, Dragon! with me and offering a small stipend to write a review. All opinions on the book are my own. As part of the tour I’m also excited to be participating in a giveaway of the book. See details below.

Tell the Truth, Dragon!

Written by Bianca Schulze | Illustrated by Samara Hardy

From the Publisher

Acknowledging and owning up to a mistake is a very difficult task for children—and it’s not always easy for adults, either! In this most recent installment of the popular Dragon series from Clever, Tell the Truth, Dragon! introduces a situation in which Dragon blames someone else for the mistake she makes. Gentle text prompts readers to encourage Dragon to tell the truth and apologize for her mistake, even though it’s a tough thing to do. Dragon realizes her mistake and offers an apology—and then more than makes up for it!

Designed to be a read-aloud, parents will take pleasure in the playful text as much as children will enjoy following the prompts to interact with Dragon. The whimsical and colorful illustrations enable the dragon to jump off the page and will delight readers with her personality on every page.

My Review

Dragon has discovered “a scrump-diddly-icious-smelling cake” in the kitchen. Her snout gets closer…and closer. Cat and the mice tell her “paws off!” but it’s just sooo…. And now the cooks are mixing the frosting (Dragon’s favorite part!) and spreading that pink sweet yumminess on all three layers! There are sprinkles too!

While the cooks, Cat, and mice “sweep-etty-sweep-sweep!” the crumbs and sprinkles from the floor, Dragon gets to lick the extra frosting from the bowl and spoon. She loves it “soooooooo much! Lick your lips if you do, too.” The cooks decide they better hide the cake, because you-know-who might just not be able to control herself, but they can’t find the perfect spot and need readers’ help. Of course, you found a terrific hiding place. Now they need your help to distract Dragon. Hey! That stuff you’re doing? It’s working! You’re good at this!

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Image copyright Samara Hardy, 2022, text copyright Bianca Schulze, 2022. Courtesy of Clever Publishing.

Well, it didn’t take long for Dragon to discovered the cake is missing, and just as we all feared, she’s searching everywhere for it. Everywhere. (You know what that means!) Oh no! When the cooks bring the cake out of the fridge to give to the “very special” person it was made for, they see that someone has taken a bite out of the top layer! “Dragon, was that YOU who tasted the cake?” they ask.

Dragon looks ashamed, but she says, “No?” And then she points at Cat! The cooks stare angrily at Cat, while the mice stare perplexedly at Dragon. Then readers are asked, “Do you think Dragon should tell the truth? If you agree, say… Tell the Truth, Dragon!” With your help, Dragon apologizes and gives Cat a big “I’m sorry” hug.

But “Oh, no!” Now Dragon is creating a huge mess in the kitchen! What is she making? All I can tell you is that it’s going to be “scrump-diddly-icious” and the first slice is for someone very special. Can you guess who that is?

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Image copyright Samara Hardy, 2022, text copyright Bianca Schulze, 2022. Courtesy of Clever Publishing.

The newest book in Bianca Schulze’s Dragon series is a cause for celebration, and she’s given us just the cake to do it with! As in her previous Dragon books, Schulze’s conversational, smoothly flowing storytelling engages kids to interact with the story in fun and meaningful ways. In Tell the Truth, Dragon, Schulze’s vivid writing is infused with feelings and motivations we all share, allowing kids to recognize and understand the complex emotions surrounding the events in the story.

Here, it’s easy for children to empathize with Dragon’s excitement and impatience to try this cake that has all her favorite elements. But when she’s caught and blames Cat, it’s up to readers to convince her to tell the truth. Schulze’s directly addressing young readers in this way provides an opportunity to get them thinking and talking about why Dragon should be honest, what’s holding her back, and why she lied in the first place. From there, adults can add more personal examples to the conversation to get children making their own connections.

And the icing on the cake is that this story is also just plain fun, with plenty of giggles, the return of much-loved characters, and lots of chances for kids to join in the action.

In Samara Hardy’s fresh and vibrant illustrations, kids will love seeing these beloved characters having a new adventure with Dragon. As the batter and frosting are mixed and the sprinkles fly in the cooks’ cozy kitchen, children will be as excited as Dragon, and when they’re asked to help hide the cake, the cooks’ first attempts will generate lots of laughs and reasons why certain hiding places just won’t do. The cooks’, cat’s, and Dragon’s facial expressions give kids clear evidence of their feelings while providing opportunities for them to talk about how they know a character is excited, sneaking, surprised, upset, sorry, or forgiving and why. Dynamic typefaces prompt kids to join in on fun-to-say phrases as well as the interactive elements of the story.

Humorous, fun, and sure to inspire thoughtful conversations, Tell the Truth, Dragon! is a must for all home, classroom, school, and public libraries.

Ages 3 – 7

Clever Publishing, 2022 | ISBN 978-1954738034

Meet Bianca Schulze

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Bianca Schulze is the founder and editor of The Children’s Books Review – a resource devoted to children’s literature and literacy. Bianca is also the bestselling author of 101 Books to Read Before You Grow Up, an Amazon “Book of the Month” in 2016. She is a reader, reviewer, mother, and children’s book lover. Born and raised in Sydney, Australia, Bianca now lives with her husband and three children near Boulder, Colorado.

Discover more about Bianca Schulze and her books at biancaschulze.com. You can connect with Bianca on Facebook | Instagram | Twitter

Meet Samara Hardy

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Samara Hardy is an illustrator and designer who has created artwork for clients across the globe for greetings cards, stationery, homewares, children’s books, and much more.

To learn more about Samara Hardy, her books, and her art, visit her at samarahardy.com You can connect with Samara on Instagram | tumbler

Tell the Truth, Dragon Giveaway

Click the image below (or click here and scroll down) for a chance to win a 4-book set of the Dragon series—including a copy of Tell the Truth, Dragon! autographed by Bianca Schulze—a framed ‘Growing Readers’ print illustrated by Samara Hardy, and a $50 Bookshop.org gift card!

One (1) grand prize winner receives:

An autographed 4-Book Set of the Dragon series, including:

Don’t Wake the Dragon, signed by Bianca Schulze
Just Be Yourself, Dragon!, signed by Bianca Schulze
Who Loves the Dragon?, signed by Bianca Schulze
Tell the Truth, Dragon!, signed by Bianca Schulze

A framed ‘Growing Readers’ illustration by Samara Hardy (Art Size: 7″ x 7″; Final Frame Size: 12.88″ × 12.88″)
A $50 Bookshop.org gift card

Two (2) winners receive:

A copy of Tell the Truth, Dragon!, signed by Bianca Schulze

To Enter just click the image below, scroll down, and follow the directions!

Tell the Truth, Dragon! by Bianca Schulze | Awareness Tour

This Tell the Truth, Dragon! Book Tour is sprinkled with lots of treats and surprises! Don’t miss a day!

Book Reviews of Tell the Truth, Dragon!

Upcoming Reviews

Tuesday, November 8, 2022: Writer with Wanderlust
Wednesday, November 9, 2022: icefairy’s Treasure Chest
Thursday, November 10, 2022: The Review Wire
Friday, November 11, 2022: The Momma Spot
Monday, November 14, 2022: Imagination Soup
Wednesday, November 16, 2022: Happily Ever Elephants
Thursday, November 17, 2022: Dad Suggests
Monday, November 21, 2022: Lisa’s Reading
Tuesday, November 22, 2022: J.R.s Book Reviews
Wednesday, November 23, 2022: Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers

Interviews with Bianca Schulze

Tuesday, November 15, 2022: Some the Wiser
Monday, November 27, 2022: Simply 7

A Tell the Truth, Dragon! Book Activity

Friday, November 18, 2022: Me Two Books

**You can find Tell the Truth, Dragon! at these booksellers**

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Bookshop

Picture Book Review

August 4 – International Owl Awareness Day

Posted by Kath Carroll

About the Holiday

International Owl Awareness Day raises awareness of these feathered beauties that can be found all over the world in nearly every ecosystem. The day also encourages people to learn more about the owls in their area as well as to consider ways they can make their yards or the surrounding landscape more welcoming and beneficial to owls. To learn more about owls and how you can help these beautiful birds, visit American Eagle Foundation website and the Half-Earth Project.

Knight Owl

By Christopher Denise

“Since the day he was hatched, Owl had one wish. To be a knight.” Armored in his mother’s pot and cookie sheet, he played knight at home, and he watched the awe-inspiring parade of knights and their horses as they passed through the forest. One mighty knight even raised his gauntleted hand in response to Owl’s small wave of his wing. Before falling asleep each morning, he dreamed of being a real knight—brave, clever, and with lots of friends.

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Owl thought it was just wishful thinking until knights began disappearing, and a call went out recruiting new ones. Knighthood was being fast-tracked, the advertisement proclaimed, and trainees could begin living “a life of honor and adventure” in just two weeks. Owl applied… and was accepted. “Owl was an excellent student,” even tutoring the older knights. But the sword, shield, and daytime hours posed challenges. Despite these, Owl “graduated with honor, as all knights do.”

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Much to his delight, Owl “was assigned to Knight Night Watch.” While the other knights dozed during the long, dark hours, Owl remained vigilant at his parapet. One night, he heard a loud “Whoosh!!! It sounded like a huge bird flapping its wings. ‘Whoooo,’ Owl called.” Suddenly, an enormous dragon landed behind Owl. Despite his fear at learning that the dragon was hungry, Owl “puffed out his feathers and said, ‘I am Owl, and I am a knight of the Night Watch.'”

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The dragon was ready to gobble him up as a midnight snack, when Owl cleverly convinced him to try something “tastier and more filling.” The dragon was game, and as they sat together eating their (much better) dinner, they talked about hatching from eggs, how much they loved nighttime, and the wonder of flying. It turned out they “had a lot in common.” From that night on, no knights disappeared, and Owl continued to guard the walls. He liked his knightly duties because “he was brave, he was clever…. And he had many friends.”

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Christoper Denise’s Knight Owl glows with the magical kind of storytelling that makes kids believe they can do and be anything. While Owl dreams of being a knight, readers will find the qualities of this calling—bravery, cleverness, and having many friend—applies equally to whatever pursuit they dream of. The story is sprinkled with humor, gentle suspense, and Owl’s palpable pride in being a knight—all elements that will keep kids riveted to the pages that are each stunning works of art that play with perspective and lighting and hold details that will charm readers of all ages.

Denise’s absolutely adorable Owl will tug at your heart as he sits devouring a book of knightly tales while surrounded by wooden medieval toy figures; armors up with cookware and kitchen utensils while his father reads a newspaper touting missing knights and his mother readies a pan for the oven; and keeps Knight Night Watch, his eyes barely peeking over the wall (the page turn reveals that Owl is standing on a ladder to reach this height—another detail that will resonate with kids). The size and armor of the knights are nothing short of astounding. You can almost hear the creak and clash of metal as they ride their horses through the forest and mill about at Knight School. Owl’s dream, rendered as a tapestry, is another showstopper. The dragon Denise has conjured is everything a child wants a dragon to be while also amenable to a delicious snack, good conversation, and companionship.

Gifting children with a tiny hero who has big dreams and a bigger heart, Knight Owl is simply a must for all home bookshelves as well as for classroom, school, and public library collections. The book would also make a much-loved gift for the holidays, other special occasions, or “just because.”

Ages 2 – 8

Christy Ottaviano Books, 2022

Discover more about Christopher Denise, his books, and his art, visit his website.

International Owl Appreciation Day Activity

Whooo’s There? Word Search Puzzle

Can you find the nineteen types of owls that call the United States home in this printable puzzle?

Whooo’s There? Word Search Puzzle | Whooo’s There? Word Search Solution

**You can find Knight Owl at these booksellers**

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Books-a-Million

To support your local independent bookstore, order from

Bookshop | IndieBound

Picture Book Review

February 2 – World Read Aloud Day

Posted by Kath Carroll

About the Holiday

Celebrating its thirteenth year and sponsored by global non-profit LitWorld and Scholastic Publishing World Read Aloud Day encourages adults to read aloud to children not only today but every day. Reading aloud to children from birth is one of the best ways to promote language development, improve literacy, and enjoy bonding time together. Millions of people celebrate today’s holiday all across the United States and in more than one hundred countries around the world. Special events are held in schools, libraries, bookstores, homes, and communities, and authors and illustrators hold readings and visit classrooms. To learn more about World Read Aloud Day, visit LitWorld and check out their Activity Hub to find live events, virtual read alouds, downloadable bookmarks, posters, games, and more!

The Book Dragon

Written by Kell Andrews | Illustrated by Éva Chatelain

In Lesser Scrump, reading was a chore. To teach the alphabet, the schoolmaster, Mr. Percival, drew on tree trunks with bits of charcoal, scratched on slate with a rock, or drew in the dirt of the schoolyard. One day, Rosehilda said that “‘reading would be more fun if the letters and words were written as stories.’” She even suggested writing them with ink on papers that could be put together. The students were shocked and “Mr. Percival sent Rosehilda home with a stern note scratched onto a leaf.”

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Image copyright Éva Chatelain, 2018, text copyright Kell Andrews, 2018. Courtesy of Sterling Children’s Books.

When Rosehilda got home and asked her grandfather what all the fuss was about, he told her about the Book Dragon, who instead of hoarding gold, collected books. Rosehilda had never heard of a book, and her grandfather explained that it was “letters and words written on papers that are attached together.” He pointed out the window to Scrump Mountain and told Rosehilda that the Book Dragon lived deep inside and stole any book brought into the village.

The next day at school, Rosehilda declared that the school needed books and that she was not afraid of the Book Dragon. Mr. Percival explained that after the dragon snatched a book, she would terrorized the villagers the next night. He sent her home again with another note etched into a candle stub. On the way home, Rosehilda met a peddler who had a book in her pile of wares. Rosehilda traded her candle stub for the book.

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Image copyright Éva Chatelain, 2018, text copyright Kell Andrews, 2018. Courtesy of Sterling Children’s Books.

That night Rosehilda read a story about a brave knight who defeated a dragon and won its hoard of gold. “For the first time, reading wasn’t tiresome. It was amazing!” In the morning, the book was gone. Rosehilda’s grandfather told her that they and all the villagers would have to lock their windows that night because the dragon would surely come to frighten them. Rosehilda felt guilty, and “she vowed to challenge the dragon and win her book back.”

She went to the top of Scrump Mountain and peered into the dragon’s cave. The Book Dragon was lying atop an immense pile of books. She looked surprised to see Rosehilda standing there. Rosehilda summoned her courage and demanded that the dragon return her book. The Book Dragon apologized and explained that because she was too big to live in the village, books were the only friends she had.

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Image copyright Éva Chatelain, 2018, text copyright Kell Andrews, 2018. Courtesy of Sterling Children’s Books.

Rosehilda scolded the dragon for stealing so many books. The dragon said she only meant to borrow them, but when she tried to return them the next night, the windows were locked and people screamed when she knocked. The dragon agreed to give Rosehilda her book back, but Rosehilda had a hard time finding it among so many books.

While searching for it, Rosehilda and the Book Dragon began stacking the books “by subject and author.” At the end of the day, they had plenty of piles and many more books to sort, and Rosehilda still hadn’t found her book. The Book Dragon suggested that she borrow a different one. Rosehilda read late into the night, and the next day she went back to the dragon’s cave to help sort more books. She left with another book. This went on all week.

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Image copyright Éva Chatelain, 2018, text copyright Kell Andrews, 2018. Courtesy of Sterling Children’s Books.

Finally, all the books were sorted and Rosehilda finally found her book. She was excited that she wouldn’t have to come back, but the Book Dragon looked sad and suggested that she “borrow another book…and come back tomorrow.” That gave Rosehilda an idea. The next day at school, Mr. Percival and the other students were horrified to see the dragon outside their window, but Rosehilda explained that she was just returning their books. Now the Book Dragon oversees the “Official Village Library of Lesser Scrump,” and everyone reads as much as they want!

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Image copyright Éva Chatelain, 2018, text copyright Kell Andrews, 2018. Courtesy of Sterling Children’s Books.

Kell Andrew’s clever story will delight book lovers of all scales with its mix of fantasy, mystery, courage, and friendship. Fearless Rosehilda is a plucky role model for all kids, and the Book Dragon’s desire for company will melt readers’ hearts faster than a breath of fire. Andrew’s storytelling reflects the best of fairy tale lore for a modern audience, with touches of humor, mistaken motives, and a creative resolution.

Éva Chatelain bridges the medieval and the familiar in her bright illustrations that draw on the rich yellows, reds, and greens of leather-bound books, piles of gold, fiery emotions, and woodland villages. Chatelain introduces brave Rosehilda as she challenges her teacher and buys a book, but she also reveals the trepidation Rosehilda overcomes to confront the Book Dragon, showing readers that even the most courageous people can feel fear too. As Rosehilda reads her treasured book, kids’ suspense will quicken to see the silhouette of the dragon outside her window. The stacks of books that Rosehilda and the Book Dragon build are cunning references to library stacks, and the final images of a happy town and a happy (dragon) librarian will charm readers.

An enchanting story for book buffs, dragon devotees, and fairy tale fans, The Book Dragon would be a favorite addition to story times and home, classroom, and public libraries.

Ages 3 – 7

Sterling Children’s Books, 2018 | ISBN 978-1454926856

Discover more about Kell Andrews and her books on her website.

To learn more about Éva Chatelain, her books, and her art, visit her website.

World Read Aloud Day Activity

World Read Aloud Day Bookmarks

Print and color these bookmarks available on the LitWorld website! You’ll find more bookmarks, instructions on how to make a read-aloud crown, story games, book lists, and more activities to download there too!

Darling Dragon Matching Puzzle

**You can find The Book Dragon at these booksellers**

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Books-a-Million | IndieBound

Picture Book Review

September 1 – It’s Read a New Book Month

Posted by Kath Carroll

About the Holiday

The beginning of a new school year is a terrific time to celebrate Read a New Book Month. Whether the books are recently published or just new to you, there are stories and nonfiction books to fit any subject, to inspire learning, to laugh or cry with, and to share with friends. This month visit your local bookstore and library and stock up on books for everyone in the family!

Dylan’s Dragon

Written by Annie Silvestro | Illustrated by Ben Whitehouse

When Dylan was little, he liked to while away his days “playing, doodling, drawing, daydreaming.” He drew spaceships and race cars, dragons and robots. But as he got older, Dylan found there were many more things to do, like karate, baseball, gymnastics, and swimming. And of course there was lots of homework. There wasn’t a moment when Dylan wasn’t doing something. Then one day Dragon showed up at his door wanting to play. But Dylan was just on his way to school. All day long Dylan thought about Dragon. He seemed vaguely familiar, but Dylan couldn’t remember. Dylan planned on playing with Dragon after school, and when he got home they did fly a few circles around the yard, but then it was time for his piano lesson.

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Image copyright Ben Whitehouse, 2021, text copyright Annie Silvestro, 2021. Courtesy of Albert Whitman & Company.

The next morning, after he gave Dylan a ride to the kitchen, Dylan asked if Dragon would like to play after school. “Dragon stuck out his tongue and slurped oatmeal off Dylan’s cheek, which felt kind of slimy but seemed like a yes.” But they only had a few short minutes before Dylan had to study and then go to science club. Dylan thought Dragon might be able to help with his homework, but Dragon’s flames singed his test review papers.

On the rest of the days that week, Dylan tried to include Dragon, but it just didn’t work out. Finally, the weekend came and Dylan thought they would be able to play then. Dragon “swatted Dylan with his tail, which felt cold and scaly but had to mean yes.” Saturday morning, Dylan jumped out of bed ready to play with Dragon, but his parents reminded him of his baseball game, piano recital, and Aunt Edith’s 90th birthday party. But “when do I get to play?” Dylan asked.

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Image copyright Ben Whitehouse, 2021, text copyright Annie Silvestro, 2021. Courtesy of Albert Whitman & Company.

When Sunday morning rolled around, Dylan woke up and asked his mom, “‘What do we have to do now?'” Surprisingly, Dylan had nothing planned. “‘Just go out and play,'” his mom told him. Dylan cheered and called for Dragon, but he didn’t come. In fact, he was nowhere to be found. “It seemed like Dragon was draGONE.” Dylan looked everywhere, but no dragon. Dylan began to cry.

When his mom asked him what was wrong, Dylan told her about Dragon and wanting to play and never having enough time. “‘Sounds like we need to cut back,'” his mom said. Then she told him she’d help look for Dragon. As Dylan was drawing a picture of Dragon to show his mom, when he remembered where he’d seen Dragon before – in his old drawings from when he was little.

As he carried his drawing downstairs to show his mom, it began to steam. “It smoked… then POOF popped Dragon, right into the living room. This time when Dylan asked if he wanted to play, Dragon wrapped a wing around him in a hug that “was most definitely a yes!”

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Image copyright Ben Whitehouse, 2021, text copyright Annie Silvestro, 2021. Courtesy of Albert Whitman & Company.

Annie Silvestro’s creative storytelling is both whimsical and realistic as she reminds readers about the importance of balance between activities, school, and free time in children’s schedules. When the dragon, a favorite drawing from Dylan’s preschool or kindergarten days, appears to rescue him and his harried family, many kids (and adults) may identify with Dylan’s desire for a more relaxed lifestyle. Silvestro’s dialogue rings true as Dylan’s parents call him from snatched moments of play and Dylan pleads for just ten more minutes. Dylan’s mom’s recognition of the need to cut back on some of her son’s activities sets a good example, and Silvestro’s message that imagination and creativity make beneficial playmates is reassuring.

Ben Whitehouse’s vivid illustrations cleverly depict the dichotomy between Dylan’s desire for playtime and his over-scheduled routine as images of Dylan riding and playing with his Dragon are juxtaposed with his mom and dad indicating that it’s time to go to one activity after another. Well-marked calendars, a tablet, watches and clocks, lots of sticky note reminders, and equipment for various extracurricular activities at the ready crowd the family’s home – fitting images for the dizzying swirl of appointments that must also crowd Dylan and his parents’ minds. While Dylan’s room is decorated with his many interests, Whitehouse shows that it is his long-lost love of drawing and imagination that truly makes him happy.

A clever and engaging story about recapturing the simple pleasures of free time and playtime, Dylan’s Dragon can also spark conversations between adults and kids about how much is too much and finding that happy medium. A perfect book to share at home, especially as the new school year begins, Dylan’s Dragon would be an excellent addition to home bookshelves as well as school and public library collections.

Ages 4 – 7

Albert Whitman & Company, 2021 | ISBN 978-0807517420

Discover more about Annie Silvestro and her books on her website.

To learn more about Ben Whitehouse, his books, and his art, visit his website.

Read a New Book Month Activity

Darling Dragon Matching Puzzle

In this group of darling dragons, each dragon has a twin. Can you help them find each other in this printable puzzle?

Darling Dragon Matching Puzzle

**You can find Dylan’s Dragon at these booksellers**

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Books-a-Million

To support your local independent bookstore, order from

Bookshop | IndieBound

Picture Book Review

April 23 – World Book Day and World Book Night

Posted by Kath Carroll

About the Holidays

Sponsored by UNESCO, World Book Day, also known as World Book and Copyright Day and International Day of the Book, encourages families and individuals to rediscover the joys of reading and promotes the availability of a wide range of books to all and in all languages. April 23 was chosen to celebrate books in honor of William Shakespeare, Miguel de Cervantes, and Inca Garcilaso de la Vega, who all died on this date. The holiday offers an opportunity to highlight the power of books and to promote the United Nations’ vision of societies that are inclusive, pluralistic, equitable, and open and participatory for all citizens. Each year publishers, booksellers, and libraries choose a World Book Capitol for a one-year period to acknowledge the city’s commitment to promoting books and fostering reading. The World Book Capitol for 2021 is Tbilisi, Georgia. This year’s theme is “Share a Story.” For more information on World Book Day and to find a communication toolkit as well as other resources, visit the UNESCO website and The World Book Day website.

First established in the United Kingdom and Ireland but now a global event, World Book Night is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year. While World Book Day focuses on promoting reading for and with children, World Book Night encourages adults to set aside time to read for pleasure as well. Reading for pleasure can have a enormous impact on one’s life, from learning new information to feeling more connected to the world to just relaxing and taking a healthy break from daily responsibilities. World Book Night was also conceived as a way to get more books into more hands, and as such is actively involved in giving away designated books to care homes, youth centers, colleges, prisons, public libraries, mental health groups and other charity partners who match books with new readers to reach those who may not have access to or the resources to buy books. To learn more about this initiative, visit the World Book Night website.

You can get involved too! Why not start today? With so many amazing books to discover, reading daily is a luxury worth indulging. For kids, there may be no cozier routine than snuggling up next to mom or dad or cuddling under the covers and getting lost in a wonderful story before falling asleep. And adults? You never really lose that comforting feeling of ending the day with a good book.

Thanks go to Lerner Books for sharing a copy of Where is the Dragon? for review consideration, all opinions on the book are my own.

Where is the Dragon?

By Leo Timmers

The king was having nightmares about a dragon he was sure was on the prowl, so he sent “his knights: One, Two and Three. ‘Save the realm! But mainly me,'” he ordered. The knights bravely went out into the dark forest armed only with…well…their armor and a candle, but they had a problem. It turned out that none of them had every seen a dragon before. But they each had assurances from the king as to how a dragon behaved and what it looked like. Knight Two knew (from the king) that forest animals ran away from a dragon.

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Just as they came upon a suspicious-looking shape cloaked in the darkness, “Knight One [said], ‘Well, the king confided / their spikes are thick and double-sided.'” The mound in front of them appeared to have a head, a well-spiked body, and a pointy tale. Without trepidation, however, the smallest knight approached and held up his candle to find… a wagon overflowing with carrots and long-eared rabbits taking a snooze.

The three moved on, out of the forest and into an area of lush undergrowth. As they came to a truly frightening silhouette that looked ready to gobble them up, Knight Two alerted his friends that the king had warned him about a dragon’s teeth. While Knight One and Knight Two were fumbling in the dark on their way to slay this dragon, Knight Three stepped forward. “‘Ha ha, ho ho,'” he laughed. Their “dragon” wasn’t scary at all.

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In a moment, the knights had gotten themselves into an awful fix when they began crossing a fallen tree that led right to a dragon’s nest. How did they know this was a real dragon? Knight One told them, “‘Well, the king declared / their necks are long, their nostrils flared.'” And, indeed, in front of them awaited the shadow of just such a beast. But as Knight Two took another bumbling trip, the intrepid Knight Three discovered in his dwindling candle’s light a rather peaceful, sleepy scene.

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Farther on another scare in the deep, dark night turned out to be just another snore. By this time the candle was burning low when they happened upon a rocky mound. There were no spikes, no sharp teeth, no neck or even head, and there was absolutely none of that “‘… scalding sizzling smelly breath'” the king had told them about. Knight Two had had enough. “‘Dragons? No such thing,'” he said. “‘Let’s all go home and tell the king.'” But just to make sure, Knight Three held up his sputtering candle. There was nothing there to frighten him, and he decided “‘the dragon’s just in the king’s head.'” But did he really get a good look?

celebrate-picture-books-picture-book-review-where-is-the-dragon-rabbits

Leo Timmers puts a medieval spin on “things that go bump in the night” with his laugh-out-loud tale of three knights on a mission to rid the kingdom of a dragon that’s vexing the king. As they set out on a dark, but starry night, the knights have only the descriptions the king has provided to guide them. Accompanying each two-page spread in which the knights encounter ominous silhouettes are Timmers’ short and cunning rhyming couplets that lead the knights – and readers – to conclude that indeed a dragon lies ahead.

But in the glow of the candle (just as when the bedroom light flips on) the dragon disappears, and in its place is a harmless – and hilarious – bedtime scene. Meanwhile, as Knight Three is uncovering the sleepers of the realm on the righthand page, on the left page bumbling Knight Two is engaged in slapstick trips, falls, and mishaps all to the detriment of Knight One. These increasingly will keep kids laughing and waiting to see what happens next. Timmons’ pitch-perfect ending will enchant kids and anyone just looking for a good night’s sleep.

Part Monty Python, part bedtime story, and entirely ingenious, Where is the Dragon? will become a quick favorite for fun, madcap and imagination-filled daytime or nighttime story times at home, in the classroom, and for public library collections.

Ages 4 – 7

Gecko Press / Lerner Books, 2021 | ISBN 978-1776573110

To learn more about Leo Timmers, his books, and his art, visit his website.

World Book Day and World Book Night Activity

celebrate-picture-books-picture-book-review-reading-bug-book-plate

I’ve Got the Reading Bug! Collection

When you buy a new book, you need new book bling to go with it! Here’s a printable book plate and bookmark, plus a want-to-read list to help you choose your next new book to buy!

I’ve Got the Reading Bug! Books to Read List | I’ve Got the Reading Bug Bookmark | I’ve Got the Reading Bug Bookplate

**You can find Where is the Dragon? at these booksellers**

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Books-a-Million

To support your local independent bookstore, order from

Bookshop | Indiebound

Picture Book Review

January 16 – Appreciate a Dragon Day

Posted by Kath Carroll

About the Holiday

Appreciate a Dragon Day was established in 2004 by author Danita K. Paul to celebrate the publication of her novel DragonSpell, the first book in her Dragon Keepers Chronicles series. The holiday now encourages all readers to get involved with reading through fun activities—dragon-themed, of course! Teachers, librarians, and all those who love reading can find lots of suggestions for creative ideas that encompass art, crafts, displays, drama, and many other mediums on Danita K. Paul’s website. So, round up your favorite dragon books and breathe some fire into your reading today!

The Book Dragon

Written by Kell Andrews | Illustrated by Éva Chatelain

Image copyright Éva Chatelain, 2018, text copyright Kell Andrews, 2018. Courtesy of Sterling Children’s Books.

When Rosehilda got home she asked her grandfather what all the fuss was about. He told her about the Book Dragon, who instead of hoarding gold, collected books. Rosehilda had never heard of a book, and her grandfather explained that it was “letters and words written on papers that are attached together.” He pointed out the window to Scrump Mountain and told Rosehilda that the Book Dragon lived deep inside and stole any book brought into the village.

The next day at school, Rosehilda declared that the school needed books and that she was not afraid of the Book Dragon. Mr. Percival explained that after the dragon snatched a book, she terrorized the villagers the next night, and he sent her home again with another note etched into a candle stub. On the way home, Rosehilda met a peddler who had a book in her pile of wares. She gave it to Rosehilda in exchange for the candle stub.

Image copyright Éva Chatelain, 2018, text copyright Kell Andrews, 2018. Courtesy of Sterling Children’s Books.

That night Rosehilda read a story about a brave knight who defeated a dragon and won its hoard of gold. “For the first time, reading wasn’t tiresome. It was amazing!” In the morning, the book was gone. Rosehilda’s grandfather told her that they and all the villagers would have to lock their windows that night. Rosehilda felt guilty. “She vowed to challenge the dragon and win her book back.”

Image copyright Éva Chatelain, 2018, text copyright Kell Andrews, 2018. Courtesy of Sterling Children’s Books.

Rosehilda scolded the dragon for stealing so many books. The dragon said she only meant to borrow them, but when she tried to return them, the windows were locked and people screamed when she knocked. The dragon agreed to give Rosehilda her book back, but Rosehilda had a hard time finding it among so many books.

While searching for it, Rosehilda and the Book Dragon began stacking the books “by subject and author.” At the end of the day, they had plenty of piles and more books to sort, and Rosehilda hadn’t found her book. The Book Dragon suggested she borrow a different one. She read late into the night, and the next day she went back to the dragon’s cave to help sort books. She left with another book. This went on all week.

Image copyright Éva Chatelain, 2018, text copyright Kell Andrews, 2018. Courtesy of Sterling Children’s Books.

Finally, all the books were sorted and Rosehilda found her book. She was excited that she wouldn’t have to come back, but the Book Dragon looked sad and suggested that she “borrow another book…and come back tomorrow.” That gave Rosehilda an idea. The next day at school, Mr. Percival and the other students were horrified to see the dragon outside their window, but Rosehilda explained that she was just returning their books. Now the Book Dragon oversees the “Official Village Library of Lesser Scrump,” and everyone reads as much as they want!

Image copyright Éva Chatelain, 2018, text copyright Kell Andrews, 2018. Courtesy of Sterling Children’s Books.

An enchanting story for book buffs, dragon devotees, and fairy tale fans, The Book Dragon would be a favorite addition to story times and home, classroom, and public libraries.

Ages 3 – 7

Sterling Children’s Books, 2018 | ISBN 978-1454926856

Discover more about Kell Andrews and her books on her website.

To learn more about Éva Chatelain, her books, and her art, visit her website.

Appreciate a Dragon Day Activity

Darling Dragon Matching Puzzle

In this group of darling dragons, each dragon has a twin. Can you help them find each other in this printable puzzle?

Darling Dragon Matching Puzzle

**You can find The Book Dragon at these booksellers**

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Books-a-Million | IndieBound

Picture Book Review

June 18 – National Splurge Day

Posted by Kath Carroll

About the Holiday

Today’s holiday was instituted in 1994 by Adrienne Sioux Koopersmith, a self-proclaimed “eventologist” who has created more than 1,900 of these quirky holidays we celebrate, as a way to encourage people to spend a little extra and help the economy. While this year splurging monetarily may not be possible, there are lots of other ways to enjoy an extra treat or experience a larger-than-life moment. And if your child’s wishes run to wild, mythical pets, then today is the day to indulge them—with today’s book, of course!

By Jakki Licare

You Don’t Want a Dragon!

Written by Ame Dyckman | Illustrated by Liz Climo

“NOW you’ve done it! I TOLD YOU not to wish for a dragon!” warns the narrator to the little boy who has just wished for a pet dragon at a fountain. The little boy can’t imagine anything better, but the narrator chides him. Doesn’t he remember what happened when he wished for unicorns last time?

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Image copyright Liz Climo, 2020, text copyright Ame Dyckman, 2020. Courtesy of Little Brown Books for Young Readers.

The unicorn had been destructive and even held a crazy unicorn party. Plus, the unicorn left a lot of smelly cupcake surprises around the house. The narrator continues to warn him, but the boy is having too much fun flying on his dragon. The narrator concedes that it might be fun at first, but cautions him that it won’t be worth it in the end because dragons love to chase things and never stop drooling!

The dragon smiles sneakily next to a lit grill holding a roll of toilet paper while the narrator informs us “and what the stories never mention is . . .WHERE charcoal comes from. Don’t mention this at your next barbecue. Trust me.” The little boy works endlessly to keep the dragon under control and to clean up after it. The narrator tells the boy he’s doing a good job, but he’s in for some big trouble. Dragons grow and grow and grow and become enormous!

celebrate-picture-books-picture-book-review-you-dont-want-a-dragon-chase

Image copyright Liz Climo, 2020, text copyright Ame Dyckman, 2020. Courtesy of Little Brown Books for Young Readers.

“You just don’t have the space for a dragon. In your heart, yes. But in your house . . . no.” The narrator advises the little boy to go back to the water fountain and wish the dragon away. The boy does as he’s told with a bit of regret. As he’s returning home, he discovers a Pet Adoption Day event going on and finds an adorable hamster. The narrator and the boy both agree that the hamster will be the perfect pet.

The little boy brings his hamster home and places him into a cage. He’s cleaning up the mess left from the dragon and unicorns, when the narrator points out that the lid isn’t on the cage! The hamster escapes and comes across a smelly cupcake surprise left by the unicorn. The narrator warns the hamster not to eat it, but it is too late. The hamster turns into a large unicorn-hamster and wishes for a unicorn-hamster party!

celebrate-picture-books-picture-book-review-you-dont-want-a-dragon-wagging

Image copyright Liz Climo, 2020, text copyright Ame Dyckman, 2020. Courtesy of Little Brown Books for Young Readers.

In this laugh-out-loud sequel, Ame Dyckman’s narrator is trying once again to convince our young protagonist to wish away another mythical pet. Dyckman does recap the first book, but I do recommend that readers check out You Don’t Want a Unicorn first so you can really enjoy the jokes. Dyckman’s conversational style of narration brings the story to a new level of hilarity. The narrator not only admits that flying a dragon is fun, but dramatically concedes “FINE! It’s AWESOME, too, okay?!” If your young readers are like my children they will appreciate the potty humor that the ending joke is hinged around. Yep, the cupcakes in this book are not for eating! The best part about the book, however, is the nice message of the importance of adopting animals. Dyckman’s main character has finally realized that while unicorns and dragons may be amazing creatures, they are not ideal pets. There are many animals needing homes who are tamable and loveable!

Liz Climo’s soft-colored illustrations of the boy’s adventures really highlight the fun. When Climo’s characters’ reactions are paired with Dyckman’s on-point narrations, the result is a hilarious adventure. The boy’s surprised expression at the charcoal on the barbecue and the dragon’s sneaky smile while holding the toilet paper will ensure giggles from readers of all ages. Climo is a champion at using the white space to the story’s advantage. The white space surrounding the dragon’s drool, for example, emphasizes the fact the boy is physically stuck in the drool! When the dragon grows to an enormous size, Climo cleverly uses the entire page to show that even the book can barely contain this dragon.

A fun adventure that both kids and adults will enjoy reading over and over, You Don’t Want a Dragon! is a great choice for enchanted or mythical story times as well as for placing on a non-magical bookshelf.

Ages 4 – 8

Little Brown Books for Young Readers, 2020 | ISBN 978-0316535809

Discover more about Ame Dyckman and her books on her website.

To learn more about Liz Climo, her books, and her art, visit her website.

National Splurge Day Activity

celebrate-picture-books-picture-book-review-fiery-dragon-craft

Fiery Dragon Craft

Watch out this project is hot! Create realistic looking fire to add to your own personalized dragon with the printable template and some simple supplies!

Supplies

Printable Dragon Coloring Sheet
Markers/colored pencils/ crayons
Cotton Balls
Red and Yellow Paint (I used craft acrylic paint)
Paintbrush
Glue

Directions

Take your cotton balls and pull them apart.
Paint your stringy cotton balls red. The cotton ball will stick to your paint brush if you use strokes so use a dabbing a motion. Younger children will need an adult to hold the cotton balls down.
Let the red paint dry and then add in some yellow. Don’t forget to dab. Let them dry
Print out and color in your dragon
When your paint is dried, glue down the stringy cotton balls so it is coming out of the dragon’s mouth.

**You can find You Don’t Want a Dragon! at these booksellers**

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Books-a-Million

To support your local independent bookstore, order from

Bookshop | IndieBound

Picture Book Review

About the Holiday

Tell the Truth, Dragon!

Written by Bianca Schulze | Illustrated by Samara Hardy

Meet Bianca Schulze

Meet Samara Hardy

Tell the Truth, Dragon Giveaway

To Enter just click the image below, scroll down, and follow the directions!

You can find Tell the Truth, Dragon! at these booksellers

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About the Holiday

Knight Owl

By Christopher Denise

International Owl Appreciation Day Activity

Whooo’s There? Word Search Puzzle

You can find Knight Owl at these booksellers

To support your local independent bookstore, order from

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About the Holiday

The Book Dragon

Written by Kell Andrews | Illustrated by Éva Chatelain

World Read Aloud Day Activity

World Read Aloud Day Bookmarks

You can find The Book Dragon at these booksellers

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About the Holiday

Dylan’s Dragon

Written by Annie Silvestro | Illustrated by Ben Whitehouse

Read a New Book Month Activity

Darling Dragon Matching Puzzle

You can find Dylan’s Dragon at these booksellers

To support your local independent bookstore, order from

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About the Holidays

Where is the Dragon?

By Leo Timmers

World Book Day and World Book Night Activity

I’ve Got the Reading Bug! Collection

You can find Where is the Dragon? at these booksellers

To support your local independent bookstore, order from

Share this:

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About the Holiday

The Book Dragon

Written by Kell Andrews | Illustrated by Éva Chatelain

Appreciate a Dragon Day Activity

Darling Dragon Matching Puzzle

You can find The Book Dragon at these booksellers

Share this:

Like this:

About the Holiday

You Don’t Want a Dragon!

Written by Ame Dyckman | Illustrated by Liz Climo

National Splurge Day Activity

Fiery Dragon Craft

You can find You Don’t Want a Dragon! at these booksellers

To support your local independent bookstore, order from

Share this:

Like this:

**You can find Tell the Truth, Dragon! at these booksellers**

**You can find Knight Owl at these booksellers**

**You can find The Book Dragon at these booksellers**

**You can find Dylan’s Dragon at these booksellers**

**You can find Where is the Dragon? at these booksellers**

**You can find The Book Dragon at these booksellers**

**You can find You Don’t Want a Dragon! at these booksellers**