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My Father's Dragon

by Ruth Stiles Gannett

A resourceful rescue quest

Regular price $10.29 USD
Regular price $17.15 USD Sale price $10.29 USD
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Awards & Recognition

  • Award recognition

    Newbery Honor Book

    The book is identified as a Newbery Honor Book.

AlbakiReads Editorial

A resourceful rescue quest

Elmer Elevator sets out for Wild Island to free a captive baby dragon, carrying a knapsack stocked with everyday supplies that become tools along the way. Encounters with animals who try to divert him give the journey a series of practical challenges, while the rescue quest keeps the story’s focus clear. First published in 1948, the book pairs its fantasy adventure with original black-and-white illustrations and is the opening volume in Elmer’s adventures.

Good fit for readers who enjoy

  • Children ages 9–12 interested in fantasy adventures
  • Readers who enjoy stories about dragons, animals, and resourceful problem-solving
  • Families seeking an illustrated chapter-book adventure

Themes

Rescue and courageResourcefulnessAdventureDragons and animals

Based on publisher information and book metadata.

Book overview

NEWBERY HONOR BOOK - The beloved tale of a boy on a daring quest to rescue a dragon, featuring the original black-and-white illustrations

"Irresistible . . . a real delight."--The New Yorker

Now a Netflix animated film featuring the voices of Jacob Tremblay, Gaten Matarazzo, Whoopi Goldberg, Alan Cumming, and more!

When Elmer Elevator hears about the baby dragon being held captive on Wild Island, he knows just what to do. First, he packs his knapsack with important supplies, like chewing gum, lollipops, and lots of rubber bands. Then he stows away on a ship headed for the island. Along the way, Elmer meets many exotic animals. Each tries to sidetrack him, but Elmer has some tricks up his sleeve . . . or more precisely, in his knapsack. One way or another, he will rescue the dragon!

First published in 1948, My Father's Dragon has delighted generations of young readers. It is classic storytelling at its finest.

Read all of Elmer's adventures!
Elmer and the Dragon
The Dragons of Blueland
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