About This Book
Reach for this book when you want to shift the holiday focus from getting presents to the quiet joy of giving and empathy. Through the lovable and slightly literal-minded Dragon, children learn that being kind to others feels better than having the perfect decorations or the fanciest toys. This is a gentle, secular holiday story that celebrates the true spirit of the season through simple acts of compassion. The story follows Dragon as he navigates several Christmas tasks with a heart that is far bigger than his logic. He decides not to cut down a tree because he wants it to keep living, and he eventually gives away all his own gifts to animals who have less than he does. It is a perfect fit for preschoolers and early elementary students, providing a low-stakes yet meaningful way to talk about generosity and thinking of others' needs before our own.
What Parents Should Know
Sensitive Topics
The book is entirely secular and handles the concept of 'need' metaphorically and gently. The animals Dragon meets are cold or hungry, but the resolution is immediate and hopeful as Dragon provides for them. There is no mention of religion or Santa Claus, focusing instead on personal character.
