The Popcorn Dragon

By Jane Thayer

Book Overview

You could hardly blame Dexter, ordinarily a well-behaved young dragon, for showing off when he suddenly found that he could make clouds of smoke. The temptation is irresistible, but Dexter quickly becomes insufferable. First he watches his own reflection in the river in order to admire the smoke. Then he puffs it in the faces of his friends: the zebra, the giraffe, and the elephant. He even blows smoke rings around his own tail to prove how clever he is. Soon Dexter has no friends left. He is a very lonely dragon indeed, until quite by accident he discovers a way his talent can be used to win back his playmates. This wonderful story -- first published in 1953 -- will delight both young readers and their parents, and so will Lisa McCue's appealing new pictures of this lovable show-off.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0688083404
• ISBN13: 9780688083403
• Release Date: August 1989
• Publisher: HarperCollins
• Length: 32 Pages
• Weight: 0.80 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.4" x 8.3" x 10.3"
• Age Range: 4 to 8 years
• Grade Range: Preschool to Grade 3

Customer Reviews

Popcorn dragons really pops!

Great book! Beautiful illustrations and a charming story! Kids will love it. Good time to make some popcorn too!

The Popcorn Dragon

Every child loves to show off a new achievement, whether it is hopping on one foot, tumbling, or using new words. Every parent has been exasperated when the child's pride turns into bragging and becomes offensive. The dragon in Jane Thayer's book depicts these traits, and children can see how obnoxious the little dragon is and how he hurts his friends. When the dragon realizes that his friends no longer want to be around him, he finds a way to use his new talent and win back the affection of the other animals. The story provides opportunities for parents and children to talk about using abilities in a sharing manner.

Classic Childhood Lesson

I recieved this book as a childhood gift, over 15 years ago, and have loved it ever since! The characters are fun, and colors are nice, and most importantly, the message it sends to children is timeless: You have to be a friend to make friends. "The Popcorn Dragon" would be an excellent choice to give or read to any child, boy or girl, over the age of three. I cannot recommend it highly enough.

Delightful!

This is one of my three-year-olds favorites! We borrowed it from the library and she liked it so much, we had to buy it. Dexter the dragon learns the consequences of showing off, but also learns what it means to have friends. You'll read this one over and over.

Excellent ! Good lesson for any child

This is a fun wonderfully illustrated book that is innovative and teaches children about the importance of learning to get along with others.