How to Grow a Dragon

Mr Pottifer’s Parlour of of Plants is a magical place, full of wondrous plants and Mr Pottifer is ably assisted by Sarah and Sprout the unicorn. One day, the postman delivers a variety pack of Dragodil seeds which results in a magical crop of dragons in all shapes and sizes. Although quickly homed, the dragons are not very well behaved and soon are all returned. Fortunately, Sarah is both resourceful and determined and soon, the dragons are all trained and happily homed once more.

This is such a lovely story! The rhyming text bounces along energetically, making it a pleasure to read aloud with plenty of opportunities for listeners to join in. Rachel Morrisroe has used a rich vocabulary which offers plenty to discuss as well as plenty of humour. Wonderfully imaginative, the ending suggests another idea for something which Mr Pottifer, Sarah and Sprout might grow in their shop, showing the potential for endless storytelling and developing ideas as children are sure to have plenty of suggestions of their own. The note from Sarah at the end about ‘how to grow your reading skills’ is so encouraging and thoughtful!

Full of imaginative details, colour and energy, the illustrations are fabulous! From gnomes with their socks scared off to lion like dandelions to Sprout’s loveable antics on every page, there is so much to notice, explore and enjoy in each of Steven’s brilliant pictures. Each of the dragons is bursting with personality- again, perfect for developing storytelling. The cover is really tempting with its textured, glistening dragon and this story is sure to become a firm favourite at home and at school!

How to Grow a Dragon

Rachel Morrisroe, illustrated by Steven Lenton

Puffin ISBN: 978-0241392256