Double Dipping: Dinos and Dragons

We're doubling down on reptilians today, both of which continue to create rapturous wonder in young hearts and minds.

Dinosaur In My Pocket by Ashleigh Barton & Blithe Fielden

In a clever incongruous coincidence, James loves two things beyond all else: dinosaurs and miniatures. His collection of both is vast and impressive but lacking a Triceratops. So, when on his school excursion to the museum the perfect Triceratops is spotted, James is besotted. Except, he can’t afford it.

After a little light-fingered acquisitioning, the wee dinosaur is escorted back to school in James’ pocket, then home then into his bedroom. Only, dino is not so wee after all. With each passing moment, the dinosaur grows as does James’ shame and guilt.

The beautiful thing about this tale is how the crime is uncovered simply because it can no longer be concealed or confined. Lies, guilt, misdemeanours; all have a way of amplifying if left unchecked. When James’ parents discover his dinosaur, they don’t rant or rave or punish him rather they help him return the dino and present James with a way to make amends. James is able to gain an appreciation for value and effort as well as his biggest tiny desire.

Tender, touching and terribly relatable, Dinosaur In My Pocket is a great conversation starter about doing the right thing and balm for those with a case of the guilts. I loved it.

Title:  Dinosaur In My Pocket
Author:  Ashleigh Barton
Illustrator:  Blithe Fieldon
Publisher:  Hachette Australia, Imprint Lothian Books, $24.99
Publication Date:  March 2024
Format: Hardcover
ISBN: 978734422668
For ages:  3 – 8
Type:  Picture Book

Buy the Book: Hachette Australia, Boomerang Books    


Dragon Folding by Christopher Cheng and Lucia Masciullo

Dragons are an infinite source of wonder, magic and mystic, especially so for certain cultures. And, as it turns out, for the Singers who reside in Dragon Hall as it’s known in Evan’s neighbourhood. Mr Singer baked cakes. Mrs Singer painted colourful pictures. It was a place Evan held dear and loved to visit.

But recently, the colours and verve of Dragon Hall have drained away leaving Mr Singer prickly and unkempt. Try as everyone might to rekindle Mr Singer’s dragon spirit, dust continues to gather and flames grow weak. Until, one day, Evan strives to reach his friend with a slip of an idea and piece of paper. Despite Mr Singer’s despondency and arthritic hands, together, they persist, folding, tucking, creasing, creating … winged dragons. Soon a flight of dragons commands the living room bringing with them colour and magic and eventually, cake!

Dragon Folding is a deeply personal tale of falling and losing one’s way through grief and loss. It is also a magnificent tribute to love and light that the kindness of others can reignite in the darkest of times. Life can be prickly and harsh but dragons possess enough fortitude and strength to rediscover hope as Evan helps Mr Singer remember.

Cheng’s powerful narrative layers artfully alongside Masciullo’s intricate illustrations. Loosely drawn lines and solicitous use of watercolours create a sense of fragility which oscillates from despair to delight. And of course, the essence of the dragon is carried throughout. In an attempt to find solace and peace within oneself, this team have created a touching intergenerational tale that is essentially an ode to life and beyond.

Title:  Dragon Folding
Author:  Christopher Cheng
Illustrator:  Lucia Masciullo
Publisher:  Penguin Random House, $24.99
Publication Date:  10 September 2024
Format: Hardcover
ISBN: 9781761340948
For ages:  5+
Type:  Picture Book

Buy the Book: Penguin Random House

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