My Father's Dragon

The cat warns Elmer that it will not be easy to rescue the dragon. What is the most dangerous obstacle that Elmer faces in his quest to rescue the dragon? Why? Give evidence to support your answer.

How do the animals of Wild Island treat the baby dragon? Why do they treat him this way? How does Gannett show that their actions are wrong?

How does Elmer feel when he sees the wet, old cat at the beginning of the story, and when he learns about the baby dragon’s captivity and sees the heavy rope? What do his feelings tell the reader about Elmer’s character and personality?

Describe three ways in which Elmer shows both physical and mental courage. How does Elmer’s courage help him in his quest to save the dragon?

What does Gannett intend as a reader’s first reaction to the items that Elmer and the cat gather for Elmer’s trip? What about the reaction as Elmer uses each of the items, like the gum, toothbrush, and hair ribbon? What do the items suggest about Elmer’s personality and his ability to solve problems?

Elmer is a young boy, smaller and physically weaker than the ferocious wild animals that he encounters, yet he avoids conflict with them all. In addition to his courage, what other personality traits help Elmer succeed in his mission?

What are three adjectives that describe Chrisman Gannett’s illustrations for My Father’s Dragon. Why? How do the illustrations add to the story? How do they add different meaning than the text?

Is Elmer a good role model for readers? Why or why not? Give evidence from the text to support your answer.