My Father's Dragon (My Father's Dragon, #1) Summary & Key Insights

Ruth Stiles Gannett's "My Father's Dragon" tells the charming tale of Elmer Elevator, a young boy who embarks on a daring rescue mission to save a dragon. The story begins with Elmer overhearing his older brothers bragging about their adventurous exploits. Feeling left out, Elmer decides to run away, eventually stumbling upon a small, dilapidated airplane. He uses the plane to travel to Wild Island, a place described as a peculiar blend of fantasy and reality.

Elmer's journey is driven by a strong sense of empathy and a desire for adventure. He encounters various talking animals – including a wise old owl, a grumpy and slightly cowardly rhinoceros, and a bossy, self-important monkey – each playing a crucial role in assisting Elmer on his quest. The animals’ personalities and interactions highlight different aspects of human nature, showcasing both kindness and selfishness.

His ultimate goal is to rescue the dragon, a young creature held captive by the island's inhabitants, the Wild Island people. He learns that the dragon, named "the dragon," is being exploited for his strength, forced to carry heavy loads of luggage and cargo. Elmer's compassion for the dragon's plight forms the central emotional core of the narrative.

The rescue itself isn't a straightforward heroic feat. Elmer utilizes his ingenuity and resourcefulness, learning to understand the peculiar needs and wants of the island's inhabitants and the dragon itself. He outsmarts the Wild Island people through a series of clever tricks, focusing on their weaknesses and leveraging his empathy to gain their trust (or at least, their lack of resistance). He uses his own clothes and belongings to fulfill their needs, ultimately leading to the dragon's liberation.

Throughout his adventure, Elmer demonstrates remarkable maturity and courage for his age. He overcomes obstacles with persistence and a problem-solving mentality. He learns valuable lessons about kindness, helping others, and the importance of standing up for what's right, even when facing daunting challenges. He develops strong bonds with the animals he meets, showing that true friendship transcends species and differences.

The overarching theme is the importance of compassion and empathy. Elmer's actions are not driven by self-interest, but by a sincere desire to help a creature in need. The story celebrates the power of kindness and bravery in the face of adversity, highlighting how even a seemingly small act can have a significant impact. It ultimately affirms the value of courage and empathy as essential qualities for personal growth and making the world a better place. The charming illustrations complement the narrative, enhancing the book's overall appeal to young readers.