Not Your Typical Dragon by Dan Bar-el

Crispin is a dragon who is
about to turn 7 – the age
that dragons start breathing
fire. When his big day
comes, Crispin just knows
he will be the one to light
the candles on his birthday
cake. However, it’s not fire
that comes out, it’s whipped
cream! Crispin tries over
and over to breath fire, but
is disappointed each time
(marshmallows! Really?) After wondering if he’ll ever find his inner fire, a
family emergency ends with Crispin using his not-typical abilities to save
the day.

Discussion questions:

  1. What made Crispin different from the other dragons?
  2. How did his family react? What else could they have done?
  3. How do you think you should treat someone if they are different from
    you?

Activities:

  1. With a partner, talk about what makes you special. Allow time for pairs
    to share with the group what makes their partner stand out, like Crispin.
  2. Given paper, allow students to write or draw their responses to “I’m not
    your typical dragon. When I open my mouth, ________”.
  3. Cooking activity – Fireless S’mores. Combine bite sized graham
    crackers, mini-marshmallows, mini-chocolate chips. Stir, then scoop into
    individual cups.