Author: Jerdine Nolen
Illustrator: Elise Primavera
Publisher: Harcourt, 1998
Age: 4-8
Themes: dragons, farm life, friendship
Opening: Pa didn’t know a thing about raising dragons. He raised corn and peas and barley and whet. He raised sheep and cows and pigs and chickens. He raised just about everything we needed for life on our farm, but he didn’t know a thing about raising dragons.
Summary: (from my library catalog) A farmer’s young daughter shares numerous adventures with the dragon that she raises from infancy.
I like this book because: of the way Nolen tells a story. She has the reader believing everything without an ounce of doubt, and identifying with the main character and her firm confidence in her own abilities. Pure magic and an absolute joy to read aloud! Once upon a time I was a parent of young children, and I was reluctant to read long stories to my kids at the end of the day. I realize now I cheated myself from discovering some of the best writing. Don’t miss out. Don’t be a Lazy Julie!
Resources/activities: research all the creatures that are oviparous; compare the shape, color and sizes of eggs; talk about what to do if you should find one in the wild; read more books by Jerdine Nolen!
For more Perfect Picture Book Friday picks with teacher/parent resources, check out the list on Susanna Hill’s blog HERE.
julie rowan-zoch 
OMG, I must find this book! The voice! The concept! It’s brilliant! Thanks for the rec, Julie!
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So many more, you’ve likely read others by Nolen!
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And I also wanted to say that the illustrations are a mix of hilarious (that cover!) and wondrous (the end papers and case!).
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And so rich!
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I just put 10 of her books on hold at the library. Soo excited to read them!
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Ooo, I love dragon island and how REAL this make-believe is!
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I miss this storytelling style that picture books, like this one, used to have. Today’s books for children are far too sparse. This is a story a child can settle into and truly enjoy. Thank you for sharing it today.
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I like a mix, but I totally agree, the style is much needed again!
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I can’t imagine you as a “Lazy Julie.” But you’re comment on not avoiding slightly longer text is valid. We miss out on some amazing stories if we aim for the quick & fast reads. Thank you for introducing me to this book. I can’t wait to explore it – my library actually has it!!
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Yay! And I am, terribly lazy – but resourceful! It’s even reflected in my linework in illustrations – I have to make a few lines do more!
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You always know how to pick them. I love how believable this story is with such a determined young protagonist. The illustrations are gorgeous.
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I chose it as my staff pick for the month at the bookstore too!
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Fantastic illustrations too!
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Yes!
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Love these illustrations — especially the dragon clouds. ☺️
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Yes, that opening spread!!!
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Lazy Julie! Ha! But I recall the fear–the kids would love a long one, and demand you read it again! (We were just sooo tired.) Love the story and the beautiful illustrations here. Thanks Julie!
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I just found a book yesterday that I obviously need to read called, Laziness Does Not Exist, by Devon Price!!
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