Behold... the Dragons!

Behold... the Dragons! was written and illustrated by Gail Gibbons. Gibbons does a marvelous job of explaining how the myths of dragons developed, what types of dragons there are, what dracontologists do, and how different cultures view and portray dragons. This story is a really neat read, that will leave children wondering: Did dragons really exist?

This folk tale was paired with quite elaborate illustrations. Gibbons used watercolors, textured paper, colored pencils, and a black pen for the surrealistic illustrations throughout the book. Each dragon really grabs the reader's attention and enhances the storyline. All types of dragons are listed, heroic stories are told, and cultures are revealed through each new page.

 

 

What makes this story so interesting is its different elements of information that is paired with illustrations that enhance the story line. It is really neat to see the story progress from definitions of different dragons, to ancient stories and battles with dragons, to how cultures portray dragons. Students and teachers will find themselves asking : "How many types of dragons are there!?" It is clear to see that children would become engaged in this book to learn an abounding amount of knowledge on the history of dragons.

 

Teachers should read this story to students between pre-school and 5th grade. Children will enjoy the various colors and the visible brush stroke style in each illustration throughout the book as well as the history of each dragon that is waiting to be revealed. While reading this story, teachers should ask questions such as: Why do you think people thought dragons were responsible for the weather and natural phenomenons? Which type of dragon is your favorite? Why do you think people don't believe in dragons anymore? Do you think dragons exist in our world today? Why or why not? What did the story mean to you?

 

Class activities:

1. Make dragon masks out of construction paper.
2. Make a dragon out of a recycled egg carton. Use paint and construction paper.
3. Explore the culture of China more and the way they portray the dragon. Make a Chinese New Year dragon out of construction paper links.

This is a short video on what a Chinese Dragon looks like in a Chinese New Year parade:

 

I think this book is an informational and neat read for not only the classroom, but the home as well! Children will love Behold... the Dragons! as well as these other books written by Gail Gibbons:

• The Milk Makers
• Chicks & Chickens
• Ice Cream: The Full Scoop
• Recycle!: A Handbook for Kids

"Tell me and I forget. Teach me and I remember. Involve me and I learn."

~Benjamin Franklin

 

References:

Gibbons, G. (1999). Behold... the Dragons! New York: Morrow Junior Books.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FL8LnvD2pwY