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Thursday, August 15, 2024

When You Meet a Dragon, words by Tanya Lloyd Kyi and illustrated by Udayana Lugo. Orca Book Publishers. 2024. $21.95 ages 6 and up


"Others are wise and patient. They can climb
right up to the beast's enormous ear and 
convince it to do anything ... 

Well, almost anything."

When a small child looks up to see a huge dragon above their head, they know they are in trouble. There is no way they can fight that dragon on their own. The child has smarts; they decide to round up their neighbors (and anyone else willing to assist) to help them deal with the threat. 

Some are skeptical, not convinced that dragons even exist. The child is eternally optimistic and knows that leadership is the key to getting things done. Recognizing the gifts that each brings to the table, they organize and encourage all to do their best possible work. 

Despite their best efforts, the angry dragon spews fire and ire. The resulting chaos needs to be cleared away. Luckily, a team is made stronger by those who play a role. It takes a lot of work; the community is resolute but about to admit defeat. The dragon is uncaring and determined to continue its evil ways. 

WAIT! 

"Then people arrive from nearby towns. 
They want to help too! You march. You 
shout. All of you, together, take one step 
and another toward the beast.
"

Will the extra help make any difference? If so, is it the end of future threats? Only time will tell. 

Plentiful white space in the digital artwork allows interested readers to recognize all members of the community (including pets and other animals) and the role they play while they work together to face a common problem. 

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