Review of How to Wash my Dragon

[PeterRabitt20]

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "How to Wash my Dragon" by Terry Gunn.]

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4 out of 4 stars

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If you have ever tried to bathe your pet, you can sympathize with this tale. The task requires perseverance, patience, and love. In How to Wash My Dragon, Terry E. Gunn blends fantasy and playful illustrations to tell a story about responsibility and hygiene.

This first-person narration starts with a little boy and a smelly problem: His pet dragon is stinking up the house. So much so that it is hard to breathe around him. He needs a good soapy bath. How will our tiny protagonist get his enormously heavy dragon to cooperate? With lots of love and imagination, the little boy tries various tricks: First, he carries his dragon into the tub. Then, he grabs him in a bear hug. Afterward, he coaxes him with his favorite toy. When all fails, the little boy makes a trail of dragonfruit! Will the dragon ever take a bath?

As a positive aspect, the plotline is nothing short of splendid. Gunn drew up imaginative situations for the protagonist to overcome. It cannot be easy to conjure natural everyday conflicts with a fire-breathing pet—I appreciated that effort. In addition, the sentences are written using clever end rhymes, which sound even better read aloud.

Another positive aspect is the key themes of responsibility and kindness towards animals. I noticed how patient and kind the little boy was with his headstrong pet. Instead of using force, he brainstormed gentle ways to solve his problem (my favorite trait). There is also a subtle message about the importance of hygiene and cleanliness. These small notes will make a lasting impression on children long after the book is closed.

Milan Samadder’s illustrations get thumbs-up for creativity and adorableness. They conveyed details on top of those mentioned in the text. The hues complemented each other, such as the indigo and carrot colors. The characters’ facial expressions were emotive. I especially liked the dragon’s facial expressions, which revealed a cuddly side—even when he roared. Also, seeing his concerned face when the little boy took away his rubber duckie was heartwarming.

I disliked nothing about this book. The only negative aspect was that I couldn't find a hardcover version. Overall, I enjoyed the mixture of fantasy and real-world elements. As a result, I rate this book 4 out of 4 stars. It contains valuable themes for children’s growth, beautiful artwork, and a surprising ending. I found one minor error; therefore, this book was professionally edited.

I highly recommend it to anyone with a penchant for fantasy creatures, such as unicorns and mermaids. I recommend it to educators as an upbeat story with which to begin the new school year. Readers in upper elementary may find this story too short but could enjoy it.

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How to Wash my Dragon
View: on Bookshelves

[Abuk Marial]

I honestly love this book. I grew up with it so seeing it online and being accessible to younger adolescents who can’t access books in person brings a smile to my face , you sympathies with the young child but also love the relationship dynamic between the dragon and them. Great, friendly kids book I highly recommend!

[Margi zuu202]

This was well written and reviewed BOTD congratulations

[Tanequa Crosby]

My boys love this book. Well written and illustrations are amazing.

[queen anirah]

This book teaches an important lesson for children. Hygiene should not only be emphasized individually but also for ones environment. I really hope he’s able to get his dragon to stop stinking

[Marjenmom17]

I think this book would be awesome for my little boy to read as I teach him about washing our dog. I'm always looking for new books to read with him that are a good combination of fun and learning.

[Patty Allread]

This children's book sounds so appealing and entertaining as it demonstrates the essence of good pet care. I agree; I would want this book in hardcover because of the illustrations. Very nice review!

[Mercy Sos Christopher]

My baby sis loves this book to the moon. Its her bedtime story every night..she doesn't skip it..it is well written and very children friendly..infact she said she will wash her pet the exact way when she gets one

[Gretchen Darden]

This might be an unpopular opinion but I did not love this book. The illustrations were good, story line was good, but the attempt at rhyming was poor. The language was also too advanced for the age of the children this book was written for.

[Miranda Callaway]

Awesome book! Love the story line and how it is perfect for a young kid to read and love the book. Also teaches how to take care of yourself in a sense.

[Mary Tsedeg]

It's a well reserved book that should be read by children having a problem of bathing their pet . And anyone who loves to read about animals and their traits

[Dalia Tarek]

The book is super easy for children to understand ! . it encourages them for cleaning and taking care of their pets . its awesome , thanks!