Amy Wu and the Patchwork Dragon. By Kat Zhang, illustrated by Charlene Chua.

She tells them about dragons that bring down the rain. Dragons that are wise and just. Dragons that fly without wings.

This primary children’s book is the account of an elementary girl of Chinese heritage and her experience with sharing her family’s knowledge and beliefs around dragons. During a classroom scene, her teacher reads a special dragon book that Amy brings to school. The children are inspired to create their own version of a dragon. That evening Amy includes her family in the process of rehabilitating an old dragon “puppet” costume found in the attic. They bring out cardboard, glitter, jewels, fabric and everyone contributes until Amy has the perfect thing to share with her classmates. Several gather round and get inside the puppet costume and soar through the class to the amazement and amusement of others.

In addition to the lovable story, there is an activity page at the end of the book with directions on how to make your own dragon! There is also a comparison of Western verses Eastern dragons and the different interpretations of both. This would make a delightful read aloud, inspiration for an art activity, or a good share during the Lunar New Year. This book would make a great addition to your library.

Sea Monsters vs. Dragons: Showdown of the Legends

sea monsters vs dargonsThis book may appeal to boys who are reluctant readers and may be considered a hi/lo book.

Each battle contender is given stats like you might see for athletes: speed, size, weakness and attack style. The first few pages are dedicated to folklore and history surrounding each of the beasts. Twenty pages in and the battle begins, at which point the text changes to a narrated story.

Table of contents, index and glossary as well as definitions in text. A short  “Read More” section provides the reader with three more book titles to explore. And the “Internet Sites directs the reader to National Geographic’s Komodo Dragon page and a site dedicated to the Loch Ness monster. Full color illustrations on every page.

I anticipate this series to be a big hit with many of my students.