Marty and the Dragon is a bright and cheerful picture book about a bold little butterfly named Marty who sets out to enjoy a sunny day at the park and ends up changing a dragon’s life. At first, Marty simply wants to have fun, riding swings, watching bees, and enjoying the sunshine. But when a scary shadow appears and the animals panic, Marty shows his real courage. The shadow belongs to Drako, a misunderstood dragon who just wants friends but doesn’t know how to ask. With warmth and bravery, Marty talks to Drako, learns his story, and helps him become part of the group. What starts as a potential disaster turns into a heartwarming lesson in kindness, empathy, and the power of one small voice.

The writing is playful and sweet, full of rich imagery that paints the day in vivid color, which perfectly complements the accompanying artwork. The rhythm of the story has a gentle bounce to it, and the language is inviting, like a storyteller chatting directly with a child at bedtime. The part that really stood out, though, was how naturally it moved from silly fun to a deeper message. Marty doesn’t fight the dragon or run away—he talks.

The beginning lingers on the beauty of the day for quite a while before the real adventure kicks in. The rhyme at the end ties things up nicely. I loved how the book didn’t shy away from talking about things like loneliness, misunderstanding, and how being mean is sometimes just a mask for wanting to belong. There’s a lot of heart in this children’s book, more than some adult books, frankly.

Marty and the Dragon is a charming, feel-good story that’s perfect for young kids, especially those who might struggle with confidence or fitting in. It’s also a solid pick for parents or teachers who want to gently introduce themes like bullying, empathy, and making friends in a way that’s hopeful, not heavy. If you’re looking for something light and lovely with just enough depth to start a meaningful conversation, this one’s a winner.

Pages: 27 | ASIN : B0DWLTCNSX