The Dragon that Ate Summer

A parent might reach for this book when their child is feeling bored, lonely, or frustrated by a temporary setback like an illness or injury. It offers a gentle, magical escape for a child who feels cooped up. The story follows Alastair, who is stuck at home with a broken leg after a skateboard accident. His boring summer takes a whimsical turn when he discovers a tiny, sick dragon in his neighbor's garden. As he secretly nurses his new friend back to health, he discovers the joys and challenges of caring for a magical creature. This charming chapter book explores themes of friendship, responsibility, resilience, and the bittersweet nature of letting go. It's a comforting read that validates feelings of loneliness while showing how imagination and an unexpected friend can transform a difficult time into a memorable adventure.