My Father's Dragon
About this ebook
The narrative emphasizes bravery, friendship, and resourcefulness, inspiring young readers to think creatively. Accompanied by charming illustrations by Ruth Chrisman Gannett, the book captivates readers with its imaginative plot and endearing characters. It's a classic in children’s literature, celebrated for its humor and heartwarming lessons.
Elmer's journey is not just about rescuing a dragon; it's also about growing up and understanding empathy and compassion. The dragon symbolizes connection and trust, teaching children about perseverance and loyalty. The book balances action and humor with deeper emotional resonance, making it a timeless tale that resonates with readers today.
As the first in a trilogy, My Father's Dragon sets the stage for further adventures with Elmer and the dragon. The series grows with its readers, offering something new and exciting while maintaining its core spirit of adventure and friendship. Overall, it's a must-read for children and adults alike, blending entertainment and enrichment.
About the author
Ruth Stiles Gannett (1923–2024) was an acclaimed American children's author, best known for her My Father's Dragon trilogy, which has delighted readers for over 70 years. Born on August 12, 1923, in New York, she grew up in an environment that nurtured creativity and storytelling. She attended the City and Country School in Greenwich Village and later graduated from Vassar College in 1944 with a degree in chemistry.
After college, Gannett worked at Boston General Hospital and the Massachusetts Radiation Laboratory before turning to writing. Her first book, My Father's Dragon, published in 1948, became an instant success and earned a Newbery Honor. The story of Elmer Elevator's daring rescue of a baby dragon on Wild Island captivated young readers with its humor, adventure, and imaginative charm. The book was followed by two sequels: Elmer and the Dragon (1950) and The Dragons of Blueland (1951). Together, these books form a beloved trilogy that remains continuously in print and has been translated into 14 languages.
Gannett also wrote two other children's books: The Wonderful House-Boat-Train (1949) and Katie and the Sad Noise (1961). While these works did not achieve the same level of acclaim as her dragon series, they showcased her talent for crafting engaging stories for young readers.
She married artist and calligrapher H. Peter Kahn in 1947, with whom she had seven daughters. The couple lived near Cornell University in Trumansburg, New York, where Kahn was a professor for four decades. Gannett's stepmother, Ruth Chrisman Gannett, illustrated her dragon books, while her husband designed their typography.
Ruth Stiles Gannett passed away on June 11, 2024, at the age of 100. Her legacy endures through her timeless stories that continue to inspire generations of readers worldwide.
