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A Universal Message
Thunderstorm Dragons is a heartwarming adventure where two kids uncover the magic within a storm, learning that fear can transform into wonder if you dare to see it differently. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
My daughter was afraid of thunderstorms, and I told her the thunderstorms mean that the dragons at the mountain pilatus are coming. Thunderstorms come directionally from Mount Pilatus where we live. She then imagined how she would stomp on the dragons with her princess shoes. The story evolved thereon.
Lotta and Leo have such distinct personalities. Did you base them on real people?
Yes, they are based on my son who is 6, and my daugther is 4. Both of my children are very active and outgoing. My son is fearless and gives his younger sister nudges and confidence to become more independent.
The book beautifully conveys the idea that fear doesn’t disappear but evolves. Was that always a central theme for you?
No, this theme isn’t central in my writing in general. What is central, however, is that so far all of my children’s books (3) have a universal message which applies equally to children as it does to adults. The messages are not moralistic, but life lessons.
How did you collaborate with Nita Candra to bring the dragons to life through illustrations?
Nita has a beautiful classic style and is a pleasure to work with. I start with providing her with the complete text and a description of each scene, sometimes with pictures or very rough sketches. We then agree on the key characters. She then makes the sketches, which we do a few versions of, adding some details in each iteration before moving on to the illustrations. While it is my vision we are implementing, it is important to me that she has free creative range. I continue to be impressed by how well she illustrates dynamic and complex scenes.
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Thunderstorm Dragons
Mila Winter’s Thunderstorm Dragons is a charming adventure that turns childhood fears into thrilling discoveries. The story follows Lotta and Leo, two curious kids who stumble upon the magic hidden in a storm. When a thunderstorm crashes over their campsite, instead of running for cover, Leo imagines dragons hiding within the clouds. He convinces Lotta to join him on a wild ride, transforming fear into wonder. Through their adventure, they learn that the rumbles of thunder are actually dragon wings beating, and the lightning is the fire from their breath. By the end of their journey, Lotta sees thunderstorms in a whole new light, not just scary, but magnificent.
The way Winter captures childhood imagination is delightful. Leo’s enthusiasm jumps off the page as he spins the idea of dragons into reality, and Lotta’s hesitation feels real. The contrast between their personalities makes the story engaging. Leo, the fearless dreamer, and Lotta, the cautious skeptic. The moment Lotta finally takes Leo’s hand and joins him on the dragon’s back is pure magic. It’s that perfect blend of excitement and bravery that kids will connect with. The writing flows effortlessly, making it an easy and enjoyable read for young minds.
I also loved the book’s message about fear and perspective. Lotta starts out terrified of thunderstorms, but by the end, she embraces them. The transformation feels natural and satisfying. The line, “You know Leo, thunderstorms are still scary… but wonderful!” is a beautiful takeaway. It acknowledges that fear doesn’t just disappear, it evolves. That’s a powerful lesson for kids who struggle with anxieties. Instead of dismissing fears, the story encourages looking at them differently, and that’s a lesson even adults could use.
The illustrations by Nita Candra bring the magic to life. The dragons are awe-inspiring yet friendly, making them the perfect bridge between fantasy and reality. The golden hues of the dragon’s gift at the end add a touch of warmth and wonder. The artwork perfectly complements the story, making it feel even more immersive. The pacing of the picture book is just right, with each page turn offering a new thrill. Even the little details, like Lotta carrying a stick in her purse, make the characters feel real and relatable.
This children’s book is perfect for kids who love adventure and need a little encouragement to face their fears. It’s an ideal bedtime story, exciting, but with a comforting ending. Parents, teachers, and librarians will find Thunderstorm Dragons a great addition to any child’s book collection. If you’ve ever had a little one afraid of storms, this might just be the book to help them see the magic hiding in the clouds.
LITERARY TITAN 