The Great Dragon Bake Off
on Goodreads (60)
What’s inside...
At the Ferocious Dragon Academy, dragons-in-training learn the arts of bone crunching and teeth sharpening. But there is one dragon, Flamie Oliver, who harbors a passion for a most undragon-like pastime: baking. Flamie's love for baking is so intense that his studies at the academy are suffering, putting his graduation at risk. In order to succeed, Flamie will need to create a showstopping baked good. This fabulously funny book is perfect for fans of BBC's Great British Bake Off.
Age
3-6
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What did you think about the main character, Flamie Oliver? How did he use his passion for baking to make a difference?
How did Flamie's friends react to his unique talent? What does this teach us about accepting others' differences?
What was your favorite part of the Dragon Bake Off contest and why?
If you could create a magical dessert like Flamie, what would it be and what special ingredients would you use?
How did the story show the importance of following your dreams, even if they are different from what others expect of you?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and opinions about the story without fear of judgment. This fosters critical thinking and personal connection with the book’s themes. Use the main character, Flamie Oliver, as an example of perseverance and creativity to inspire your child to discuss their own unique talents and interests. Highlight the various emotions depicted in the book, and ask your child how they felt during key moments to cultivate empathy and emotional intelligence. Emphasize the value of accepting and celebrating differences, referring back to how Flamie’s friends and competitors reacted to his unconventional hobby.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Teamwork and Collaboration
Explanation: In 'The Great Dragon Bake Off', the main character, Flamie Oliver, works together with other dragons to cook up delightful treats. This highlights the importance of working as a team to achieve a common goal.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson in school projects or team sports, learning to cooperate and value each member's contribution.
Example Lesson: Following One’s Passion
Explanation: Flamie shows immense passion for baking rather than the traditional dragon activities like capturing princesses. This teaches children the importance of pursuing what they genuinely love.
Real-World Application: Kids can be encouraged to explore and indulge in activities they are passionate about, whether it's art, music, sports, or any other field, fostering a sense of fulfillment and happiness.
Example Lesson: Creativity and Innovation
Explanation: The book showcases Flamie creatively using his fire-breathing abilities to bake, rather than for destruction. This twist encourages children to think creatively and use their skills in unconventional ways.
Real-World Application: Children learn to think outside the box and use their unique talents in positive and constructive manners, whether in solving problems or expressing themselves creatively.
Example Lesson: Acceptance and Diversity
Explanation: Flamie's different interests from the other dragons demonstrate acceptance among his peers. This promotes the acceptance of differences and the beauty of diversity.
Real-World Application: This lesson teaches children to be open to differences among people in their communities and embrace diverse perspectives and lifestyles.