Customer Reviews
Allegorical Primer in Dealing with Difficult People 
2008-05-28
Along with all the other favorable things that have been said about the entertainment value of "My Father's Dragon," its vocubulary, and Elmer's inventive problem-solving, teachers and parents should not overlook the opportunity to discuss how each animal that Elmer encounters can be related to students' and children's peer behavior. Every chapter has a gentle message about dealing with bullying, selfishness, pride, gossip, etc. That said, the often comic presence of the disagreeable animals is also tempered by Gannett's insertion of sympathetic aspects; for example, the rhinoceros. Elmer's inquiry about why the rhinoceros is in such a temperamental frame of mind is a real lesson in kindness and seeking to understand someone on a deeper level. Elmer's cleverness, bravery and faithfulness to his word are admirable traits but if parents and instructors are looking for really rich discussion, the personalities and behavior of the animals of Wild Island yield some really rich conversation and opportunities to teach.
audio books 2008-02-23
These audio books help children that are having trouble with the written word. I also use them in the car, so each trip we hear more of the story. The kids love them and I think it makes them interested in reading.
Elmer Elveator as Role Model 2008-02-20
This series is highly imaginitive with a smart and clever protagonist, Elmer. The fantastic world that he lives in is realistic, consistent and logical. This is one of those books that you will actually enjoy reading with your kids - and is suitable for nearly any age.
Children model themselves after characters in books and on TV, and Elmer is worth idolizing. He is matter-of-fact, independent, respectful and resourceful, as we all wish our children would grow up to be.
The author never resorts to things on my "no" list: high-peril plots, ignorant or stereotypical characters, killing off one or more of the protagonists parents, pedantic or lesson-oriented text.... or the numerous other things that authors do while trying to "sell" a book.
My Father's Dragon 2008-01-03
What a surprize when my twin granddaughters begged me to read this wonderful story to them. My daughter (their mother) and I both enjoyed this book when we were very young. I had the pleasure of knowing Ruth Stiles Gannett and Lewis Gannett at their home on Cream Hill in Cornwall, CT. I am thrilled that it is still in print, along with the two other "Dragon" books by the same author and illustrator.
Their Hooked Now 2007-10-12
My 7 year old read the first book and loved it so much we got the other two. On book three he decided to only read a chapter a day because he didn't want it to end. When he told me "it was just like a great movie in my head", I knew we finally had that love of reading hook embedded. It's great for everyone but the gentle tension and excitement is right up my boys' alley.
If your child likes animals, humor, adventure, and maps... 
2007-10-10
When Elmer Elevator hears about the plight of an overworked and underappreciated baby flying dragon, he stows away on a ship and travels to Wild Island to rescue the dragon.
Buy a better quality print of this book 
2007-08-22
While the story is definetly worth 5 stars, all the paperback printings of this story render the art absolutely hiddeous. The fine graphite shading of the illustrations is totally lost and the images end up looking like Xeroxes from a newspaper. I grew up reading this story in an anthology of stories published in the 1950's; the art in the anthology is of the highest quality so I know most reprints of this story today are sadly lacking - and it's a shame, too, because I know how much I enjoyed looking at the pictures as a child with my grandfather reading the story to me. These newer printings leave much to be desired.
SUPER 2007-08-14
I just finished reading this clever, witty and engaging book to my almost-four-year-old son and we both enjoyed it very much!
My daughter - age eight - read it in about thirty minutes and I am considering using it as a resource for copywork in our daily lessons.
This is one of the most entertaining and sweet books we've ever read as a family.
My boys favorite series! 2007-01-03
Great story about a boy who rescues a baby dragon. My 3 and 5 year old love this series, and anything that doesn't beep, flash, or make a mess that will get a 3 year old to sit down for half an hour at a time has to be great! The storyline is very imaginative, and revolves around being nice to others and using what you have to solve the problems you run into.
AN Amazing Adventure 2006-12-17
These books are so special because they capture thae minds of all readers, and mean somthing more to younger kids because, Ruth Ganett use her imagineation as is she could go into a mind of an kid 5-9 and speak their thoughts. I am an avid reader, so out of all the books I've read this is one I will cherish forever. Everyone should read it even if a 190 year old person special ordered a super deluxe HUGE print version, they would still enjoy it.
