For the child embarking on new adventures or navigating personal growth, this story encourages finding inner strength and embracing unique qualities on a journey of self-discovery.
A parent might reach for this book when their child feels different from their peers or is hesitant to embrace their unique qualities. Snapdragon and the Odyssey of Élan follows a young turtle who longs to fly, a dream that makes him feel like an outcast. He embarks on a brave quest to find his “élan,” his special inner fire, meeting new friends and facing challenges along the way. This gentle fantasy adventure for ages 7 to 10 beautifully explores themes of self-confidence, bravery, and the journey to self-acceptance. It’s an ideal choice for normalizing feelings of being different and modeling the courage it takes to pursue a dream, even if the outcome isn't what you first expected.
The core topic is identity and the feeling of “being different.” The approach is entirely metaphorical. Snapdragon's quest is a stand-in for any child's journey to understand and accept what makes them special. The resolution is hopeful and empowering: he doesn't magically grow wings, but instead redefines what “flying” means to him, focusing on inner strength. The story is secular.
Ideal Reader
This book is perfect for a sensitive, introspective child aged 7 to 9 who might be feeling out of sync with their peers. It's for the child with a unique hobby, a quiet nature, or a big dream that others don't understand, who needs a story to validate their individuality and encourage perseverance.
Parent Prep
The book can be read cold. A parent might want to briefly explain the word “odyssey” (a long journey) and “élan” (your special spark or passion). The themes are gentle enough that no significant preparation is needed. The mild peril (e.g., escaping a predator) is standard for the genre and not graphic. A parent has just heard their child say, “Why am I so different from everyone else?” or “I wish I was good at (something popular) instead of (something unique).” The child may be showing reluctance to participate in an activity they love because of peer comments.
Age Experience
A 7-year-old will connect with the talking animal adventure, the friendships, and the straightforward message of being yourself. A 10-year-old will better appreciate the metaphor of the quest, connecting the concept of “élan” to their own developing identity, talents, and the social pressures of upper elementary school.
What Makes It Special
Unlike many quest stories focused on an external prize, this book’s triumph is internal. The sophisticated concept of “élan” provides a wonderful vocabulary word and a nuanced framework for discussing inner strength. The resolution, which redefines success rather than magically granting the initial wish, offers a more mature and valuable lesson in resilience and self-acceptance.
Read plot summary
Snapdragon, a young turtle, feels isolated by his impossible dream of flying. Convinced he must find his “élan” (a unique inner spirit or fire), he leaves home on a grand journey. Along the way, he befriends other creatures, like a speedy dragonfly and a wise old tortoise, who offer guidance and support. He faces mild environmental dangers and his own self-doubt. The odyssey is ultimately an internal one, where Snapdragon discovers that his true strength and “flight” come not from wings, but from embracing his unique turtle qualities and his courageous heart.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.
Discussion Prompts
1
Snapdragon wants to fly, which is unusual for a turtle. What is something unique about you that might be different from your friends? How does this story make you feel about that quality?
2
The book talks about finding your 'élan'. What do you think 'élan' means? If you had to describe your own élan, what would it be?
3
Snapdragon gets help from several friends on his journey. How did the wise old tortoise help Snapdragon see his own strengths in a new way?
4
At the end of the story, does Snapdragon learn to fly? What does he discover about his own kind of 'flying' or strength that is special to him as a turtle?
