Reviews
There are so many incredible books available at the moment that it is impossible to read them all, no matter how hard I try! Here are my thoughts about some of the books I have read and how I think they could be used in school as well as Q and A sessions with authors and illustrators.
Dragon Dave the (Not So) Brave
Stuck in a book with an ending which he really doesn’t like, Dragon Dave escapes to the title page. When Prince George finds him, looking sad, Dave explains and together, they set about changing things. Having identified the disappointing parts of the story, they re-write these to Dave’s satisfaction!
‘Dragon Dave the (Not So) Brave’ is a wonderful, fun- filled book, showing people can re-write their own stories and make positive changes.
Loosely based on the story of George and the Dragon, Dave ends up as dragon soup with a squirrely Prince George and the other villagers triumphant. However, together, they create an alternative ending along with some fun edits which alter how Dave is viewed by readers as well as making the story more entertaining! A surprising little twist at the end shows that Dave is not the only one keen to change things!
Teachers could have great fun using this story to challenge children to edit and improve writing, showing how to develop characters and add detail and encouraging them to add imaginative details. Dave and George are lovely personalities and the gorgeous illustrations add much to the story.
A really positive, laugh-out-loud story to share and enjoy!
Dragon Dave the (Not So) Brave
Alex Latimer, illustrated by Phillip Cullen
Scholastic ISBN: 978-0702314858