Written by: Dan Bar-el
Illustrated by: Tim Bowers
Viking Books for Young Readers, 2013, Imagination Library Paperback Edition
Target Audience: Ages 3-8
Genre: Fiction
Theme: Differences, Uniqueness, Humor
How We Discovered This Book: This book was an Imagination Library selection. The Imagination Library is such a wonderful program, and I am sad that just this month my daughter received her last book from the program (it ends at age 5).
Summary: A small dragon names Crispin turns 7, and is expected to breathe fire. But things work a little differently for Crispin – he breathes other things like beach balls and marshmallows. His parents are aghast, but Crispin eventually finds his way with the help of a friendly knight. Crispin’s unique talents come in handy when a problem threatens his family home.
What I Liked: Both the text and illustrations are so whimsical, and you are rewarded with something new to notice each time you read it. The author has provided some good thoughts about embracing your differences, but he does it with subtlety and humor.
What Did My Kids Think? My kids loved the illustrations – especially when Crispin breathes funny things. They couldn’t wait to turn the page to see what Crispin did next. They were very happy for him at the end of the story. This book is on frequent rotation at my house.
Resources:
ReadWriteThink has some companion activities for young children, working with each of the items Crispin breathes.
Activity Village has dragon-themed crafts, activities, and printables… even a video for making a dragon’s head from origami. I’ll have to try the dragon made from egg cartons.
Haven’t seen the movie How to Train Your Dragon or its sequel? Now might be the time!
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Today we’d like to introduce you to a new contributor to the blog. His name is Max, and he has his own YouTube Channel called Puppets Love Children’s Books. We’ve asked him to stop by every so often to give us his own unique perspective on picture books. Max loves reading children’s books, watching movies, and hanging out with his friends. His favorite books make him laugh, or surprise him.
Gather up your kids, grandkids, or the young at heart, and see what Max has to say!
A Life Spent Reading 
What a great name for a dragon!
Thanks for introducing me to Crispin’s story. Great concept!
This is a funny concept! I’ll be on the lookout for this book. Thanks.
I’m always looking for a dragon book to read. And this one looks cute. I especially love the name, “Crispin”
That is a different twist on a dragon book. Sounds like a very humorous story.
This is a fun book. We have a copy in our bedtime rotation!