Dragon Keepers #1: The Dragon in the Sock Drawer
#1 of 6 in Dragon Keepers Series
What’s inside...
For Magic Tree House readers who are ready for something longer, the Dragon Keepers series has the perfect length and reading level, along with the fast-paced writing, adventure, and sense of teamwork that kids love to read. Ten-year-old cousins Jesse and Daisy have always wanted something magical to happen to them. So it’s a wish come true when Jesse’s newly found thunder egg hatches and a helpless, tiny, but very loud, baby dragon pops out. Soon the two kids are at the dragon’s beck and call, trying to figure out what to feed her. An Internet search leads them to the library, which leads them back to the Internet, where they find a very strange Web site called foundadragon.org. Here the cousins discover that the dragon’s hatching has designated them “Dragon Keepers.” Not only do they have to feed the dragon, whom they named Emmy, but they also have to keep her safe from the villainous Saint George, who has kept himself alive over centuries by drinking dragons’ blood!
Character compass
Jesse
Emmy
Daisy
Dr. St. George
Discussion points
How do you think Jesse and Daisy felt when they discovered the dragon egg, and what would you do if you found it?
What does the relationship between Jesse, Daisy, and their dragon teach us about taking care of someone else?
How did the characters show bravery throughout the story? Can you think of a time when you were brave?
Why is it important for the characters to keep the dragon a secret, and what would you do in their situation?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the book’s adventures and themes. Use the questions to guide an insightful conversation that helps your child connect the story to their own experiences. Share your thoughts about bravery, responsibility, and secrets to deepen the discussion. Reinforce understanding by asking them to illustrate their favorite scene or depict what they imagine their own dragon would look like.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: In 'The Dragon in the Sock Drawer', cousins Jesse and Daisy discover and care for a dragon egg, learning the importance of responsibility as they nurture it. Their dedication to the mysterious egg teaches them the need for commitment and reliability.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by taking care of their own belongings, pets, or helping with chores around the house, understanding that being responsible helps in creating a trustworthy and reliable environment.
Example Lesson: Teamwork
Explanation: Throughout their adventures, Jesse and Daisy must collaborate and combine their strengths to solve problems, showcasing the value of working together. Teamwork becomes essential in overcoming the challenges they face in protecting the dragon.
Real-World Application: This principle can be applied in group projects at school or in sports, where cooperation is crucial for achieving common goals and promoting an inclusive atmosphere.
Example Lesson: Curiosity and Learning
Explanation: The cousins' quest to learn more about their dragon egg fuels their investigative spirit. Their curiosity drives them to seek knowledge and understand the peculiarities of their dragon, demonstrating the importance of lifelong learning and exploration.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to explore their interests and seek answers, enhancing their educational journey and nurturing a love for learning that goes beyond the classroom.
Example Lesson: Courage
Explanation: Jesse and Daisy often face uncertain and dangerous situations but their bravery in confrontation teaches the importance of courage in the face of adversity.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to face their fears whether it be trying out for a new activity, standing up for themselves, or dealing with difficult situations, showing the importance of bravery in personal growth and self-confidence.