Supriya's Banter
Do Not Take Your Dragon to Dinner
Author-Julie Gassman
Illustrator-Andy Elkerton
Publisher: Capstone Global Library Ltd.
Format: Paperback
Number of Pages: 32
Theme-fantasy, magic, humor, Table manners/etiquette.
Age: 3-6 years
rating-4/5
A fun read-aloud book where the audience would be jumping to participate and perhaps mimic the behavior of the dragons with hilarious results. The chuckle-worthy instances, the side-splitting fiascos, and the terrible table manners leave the little ones rolling on the floor laughing.
The shenanigans of the colorful, high-spirited dragons delight the kids to no end. They go about guzzling stacks of food, bumping dishes, burping loudly, and showing utterly outrageous behavior.
What else do you expect from flapping wings, pointy spikes, and a stinky breath that will ignite? Or someone who is rude and always late! Of course, a dragon cannot be a dinner date! (Gassman does an excellent job of engaging the target crowd with short, playful sentences.)
The rhyming verse with repetitive phrases is as charming and entertaining as the bright, striking pictures. Together, they paint a humorous picture that would prompt many repetitive readings. As the narrative advances, the dragons learn table manners, and the comparison between rude and polite behavior becomes more apparent. The diverse set of characters and dragons is applause worthy. The author and illustrators have done a remarkable job of affirming inclusivity, albeit subtly.
Educators can use the delightful book to reinforce table manners, etiquette, and an introduction to rhyming text.
An excellent book that I can promise will be read again and again…
