The Reluctant Dragon (Illustrated Edition)

The Reluctant Dragon (Illustrated Edition) by Kenneth Grahame In this delightful classic children's story, a young boy discovers that a dragon has taken up residence in the downs above his home. But this is no ordinary dragon. He is gentle, thoughtful, and fond of poetry and quiet conversation rather than fire and battle. The boy and the dragon quickly become friends, sharing long afternoons discussing literature and the peaceful pleasures of life. Unfortunately, the villagers soon learn that a dragon is living in the hills and panic spreads through the countryside. They summon the legendary dragon slayer St. George to rid them of the supposed menace. The boy and the dragon must devise a clever plan-one that will satisfy the villagers while saving the life of the most unlikely dragon ever imagined. Warm, witty, and full of charm, The Reluctant Dragon is one of the most beloved children's fantasy stories of the early twentieth century. This illustrated children's classic features whimsical dragon illustrations throughout, bringing new life to Kenneth Grahame's humorous tale of friendship, imagination, and the unexpected nature of heroes and dragons. From the author of The Wind in the Willows.

Kenneth Grahame (1859-1932) was a Scottish-born British writer best known for his beloved children's classic The Wind in the Willows. After studying at Oxford, Grahame worked for many years at the Bank of England while writing essays and stories in his spare time. His gentle humor, pastoral imagination, and affection for the English countryside helped shape some of the most enduring works of children's literature.Although best remembered for the adventures of Mole, Rat, and Toad in The Wind in the Willows, Grahame also wrote a number of shorter fantasies and tales for younger readers. Among these, The Reluctant Dragon has remained especially popular for its humorous portrayal of a dragon who prefers poetry and conversation to fire and battle.