The Reluctant Dragon

Reach for this book when your child feels pressure to act a certain way because of how they look or what others expect of them. It is a perfect choice for the sensitive or creative child who feels like an outsider in a world that values traditional toughness. This retelling of the Kenneth Grahame classic follows Jack, a boy who befriends a dragon who would much rather compose sonnets than burn down villages. The story explores themes of non-conformity, pacifism, and the power of creative expression. It gently teaches children that they do not have to fit a preconceived mold to be accepted. For ages 5 to 9, it serves as a wonderful bridge for discussing how to handle societal expectations while staying true to one's own peaceful nature. Parents will appreciate how the story uses humor and cleverness to resolve a potentially violent conflict without anyone getting hurt.