Dragons are popular mythical creatures breathing fire (or rainbows, depending on your flavor). Some kids are into dinosaurs, while others love a good unicorn story. But if your kiddos can’t get enough of dragons, then they’ll love these picture books about dragons.
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40 Great Picture Books About Dragons
Here are 40 delightful picture books about dragons:
Ellie’s Dragon
Published: November 10, 2020
When Ellie is very small, she finds a lovable newborn dragon on a carton of eggs in the grocery store. Ellie calls him Scratch, takes him home, and moves him into her dollhouse. Her mother can’t see Scratch, and her teacher doesn’t notice when Ellie brings Scratch to preschool, yet her friends are amazed. Ellie is lucky to have an affectionate, house-trained dragon like Scratch! But dragons get quite large as they grow. And Ellie is growing, too, moving from dollhouses to dance parties, not noticing that Scratch’s brilliant green scales are beginning to fade a little. . . . Beloved picture-book creator Bob Graham illustrates the joys of imagination and friendship in this touching story. With his signature gentle wit and warm, whimsically detailed illustrations, he captures the bond between girl and dragon, as well as the changes that come with time’s passage. A wistful, quietly thought-provoking tribute to the friends who appear when we need them most, even if it’s just for a little while.
Dragons Love Tacos #2
Published: May 2, 2017
News alert! It has just been discovered that there are NO MORE TACOS left anywhere in the world. This is a huge problem because, as you know, dragons love tacos. If only there was a way for the dragons to travel back in time, to before tacos went extinct. Then they could grab lots of tacos and bring them back! It’s the perfect plan, as long as there’s no spicy salsa. You remember what happened last time . . .
Again!
Published: April 16, 2013
It’s nearly Cedric the dragon’s bedtime, and for Cedric, bedtime means storytime! When his mother reads him his favorite book, he likes the story so much that he wants to hear it again…and again…and again!
Cedric’s mom understands that the best stories are ripe for repetition, and she tries very hard to be patient. But sometimes dragons will be dragons—which is why this bedtime tale ends with an incendiary surprise!
When a Dragon Moves In
Published: April 30, 2012
On a beautiful day at the beach, a young boy brings his bucket, shovel, and imagination, and builds a perfect sand castle. Right away, a dragon moves in. The boy decides to befriend his dragon and they spend time roaming the shore, flying a kite, braving the waves, defying bullies, and roasting marshmallows—all while Dad is busy sunbathing and Mom is engrossed in her book. Unfortunately, no one believes the boy when he tries to share the news of this magnificent creature. That’s when the mischief begins, and the dragon becomes a force to be reckoned with. While adults will recognize the naughty antics as a ploy for attention, children will dissolve into giggles as the dragon devours every last sandwich, blows bubbles in the lemonade, and leaves claw prints in the brownies. Maybe the dragon really is running amok on the beach, or maybe it’s a little boy’s imagination that is running wild.
Amy Wu and the Patchwork Dragon
Published: December 15, 2020
Amy loves craft time at school. But when her teacher asks everyone to make their own dragon, Amy feels stuck. Her first dragon has a long, wingless body, stag-like horns, and eagle claws, but her friends don’t think it’s a real dragon. Then she makes dragons like theirs, but none of them feels quite right…None of them feels like hers.
After school, a story from Grandma sparks new inspiration, and Amy rounds up her family to help her. Together, can they make Amy’s perfect dragon?
Attack of the Underwear Dragon
Published: October 6, 2020
Cole’s wish comes true when he becomes an Assistant Knight to Sir Percival, his favorite Knight of King Arthur’s Round Table. Cole learns how to ride a horse, swing a sword, cheer for Sir Percival when he goes to battle, and bandage his boo-boos when the battle is over. Cole loves practicing every skill a Knight-in-Training must master and he is determined to be granted knighthood.
Sir Percival is a great knight in every way, except for one thing: He is terrified that an Underwear Dragon will come and destroy the kingdom. But when the unthinkable happens, Cole is the only knight left standing (and just an assistant knight at that!) Cole must use all of his newly acquired skills to battle the fearsome dragon and avoid a catastrophe. Luckily, an unfortunate underwear mishap changes everything and Cole triumphs in this hilarious and triumphant tale!
It Came in the Mail
Published: June 21, 2016
Liam really wants some mail, so he writes a letter to his mailbox asking for something in return. His mailbox delivers, sending Liam more than he could have hoped for…and how! But as the mail starts to pile up, Liam realizes that the best packages and parcels are even better when shared with friends.
Once Upon a Dragon’s Fire
Published: March 2, 2021
How did dragons get their fire? It all began once upon a magical kingdom, where a fearsome dragon stalked the land. The dragon was mean and scary and evil, or so the stories said. One day, two brave children set out to stop him for good. But when they finally met the monster, he wasn’t quite what they expected . . .
Dough Nights and Dragons
Published: October 3, 2017
In a mythical kingdom, a knight and a dragon cook up a delicious plan to save their friendship!
In Dough Knights and Dragons, a curious knight and an amiable dragon meet serendipitously, and instantly bond over their shared love of baking. But the friends are filled with sadness when, according to the law, the two must duel one another. Can the unlikely pair find a way to evade the law, save their friendship, and spread good throughout the land? Kids will devour this scrumptiously clever tale!
Dragons Breath
Published: April 27, 2017
What happens when a Dragon doesn’t brush his teeth? Well…we all heard about the ”dragon’s breath’’. That’s why learning proper dental care is really important for a little boy and his friend Dragon Joe.
Fergal and the Bad Temper
Published: April 30, 2019
Fergal the dragon does not like being told what to do. It’s not fair! And when things aren’t fair, Fergal loses his temper and snorts angry fire.
He feels sorry afterward, but Fergal just can’t control his outburts!
After one really fiery day, his family and friends offer him some advice to calm down. Can this dragon learn to cool it before a temper tantrum hits?
Rosie the Dragon and Charlie Say Goodnight
Published: September 1, 2020
Rosie the dragon’s bedtime routine has been a little bumpy lately. But not to worry! Charlie is prepared with his lists, rules, and fire extinguisher―everything a boy needs to help guide his pet dragon (and best friend) to a peaceful night’s sleep. But with bath-time bubble trouble, fiery-hot pajamas, and stuffed animal search-and-rescues, tucking this dragon into bed is not an easy task. And what happens when thunder strikes? Snuggle up with this adorable duo as they conquer bedtime the best way: together.
Duncan, the Story Dragon
Published: June 9, 2015
Duncan the Dragon loves to read. When he reads a story, his imagination catches fire! Unfortunately . . . so does his book.
Fire breath is great for roasting marshmallows, but it’s not so great for reading. Duncan just wants to get to those two wonderful words, like the last sip of a chocolate milk shake: The End. Will he ever find out how the story ends?
The Storybook Knight
Published: September 6, 2016
Even dragons love a good story…
Leo was a gentle knight
in thought and word and deed.
While other knights liked fighting,
Leo liked to sit and read…
When Leo’s mom and dad pack him off to fight a dragon, he takes a shield, a sword―and a pile of his favorite books. But can a story be as mighty as a sword?
Puff, the Magic Dragon
Published: August 1, 2007
Puff, the Magic Dragon is simply one of the most beloved songs of all time—a classic that’s become as much a part of the childhood experience as Mother Goose and fairy tales. Yet singer/songwriter Peter Yarrow and co-composer Lenny Lipton have never allowed a picture book adaptation of this magical tale…until now. With Yarrow’s and Lipton’s blessing, Puff, Jackie Paper, and the land of Honalee finally live on the page. The exquisite package includes a cloth case with a tipped-in illustration and an embossed jacket with foil touches, as well as an exclusive CD featuring not only Puff, but several other songs performed by Yarrow, his daughter Bethany, and cellist Rufus Cappadocia. This is a publishing event sure to attract broad attention and please Puff’s many fans.
In richly-hued paintings of the deepest sea blues and greens, Puff and his friend Jackie Paper frolic in the land of Honalee—traveling in a fantastic boat with billowed sails, climbing red castle stairs onto a balcony to meet with noble kings and princes, and watching pirate ships lower their flags for the roaring dragon. Artist Eric Puybaret has brought an entire magical world into being with enthralling landscapes, color, and characters. And everyone will love the way the art cleverly turns the song’s end, which at first seemed so sad, into a surprising and joyful moment.
There’s a Dragon in Your Book
Published: September 4, 2018
First, you’ll see there’s an egg in your book. Then, a darling little dragon hatches from it! But whatever you do, don’t tickle its nose, because you don’t want it to sneeze. ACHOO! UH-OH!
Sloppy Takes the Plunge
Published: September 4, 2018
Everyone loves a good hug and a good bath!
Sloppy the tree dragon doesn’t want to take a bath.
“Being mucky is what a tree dragon is all about.” Could it be that getting clean is nearly as fun as getting dirty?
The Worst Princess
Published: April 26, 2012
Once upon a time, in a tower near you,
Lived a sad princess; the Princess Sue.
“Some day,” she sighed, “my prince will come,
But I wish he’d move his royal bum.”
But when Princess Sue’s prince finally does arrive, he’s not quite what she had in mind. Find out how the feisty princess escapes the clutches of her twit of a prince in this funny, feminist twist on the traditional princess tale. Forget about pretty dresses, fairytale weddings and grand balls, Princess Sue is all about adventure, mischief and making unusual friends. She really is the worst princess!
Waking Dragons
Published: October 23, 2012
Wake up with a pair of sleepy dragons and the knight who must get them ready for school!
Dragons wake up,
Dragons rise,
Dragons open
Dragon eyes.
From tumbling out of their humongous blankets to devouring a breakfast of catapulted waffles, these characters and their loveable antics fill the pages with luminous color and dragon-size fun. A joyful collaboration between two bestselling talents, author Jane Yolen and illustrator Derek Anderson, this book will make any young reader fly out of bed.
The Pet Dragon
Published: August 26, 2008
Meet Lin and her pet dragon!
When the dragon mysteriously disappears, Lin sets off on a journey to find her best friend . . . and readers set off on a journey of learning and discovery.
By ingeniously integrating written Chinese characters into the illustrations as the story progresses, Christoph Niemann has created a book that is engrossing, unique, and memorable. The Pet Dragon is a playful introduction to the fascinating world of Chinese language and culture . . . and a terrific story to share with children everywhere.
The Night Dragon
Published: August 7, 2018
“I wish I could fly, and breathe fire, and fill the sky with great gray, sooty clouds,” Maud said to her friend, Mouse.
Maud is picked on by the other dragons, so stays cooped up in her cave, sad and lonely. But when the chance comes, will her friend Mouse help her pluck up the courage to fly? A beautiful picture book about individuality and friendship. “I wish I could fly, and breathe fire, and fill the sky with great gray, sooty clouds,” Maud said to her friend, Mouse.
Maud is picked on by the other dragons, so stays cooped up in her cave, sad and lonely. But when the chance comes, will her friend Mouse help her pluck up the courage to fly? A beautiful picture book about individuality and friendship.
Do Not Bring Your Dragon to the Library
Published: August 1, 2016
Have you ever thought about bringing your dragon to the library? Don’t do it! You might have the best intentions, but that dragon will cause nothing but trouble. Using rhyming text and a diverse cast of characters, this charming picture book will provide some important―and some not so important―library etiquette in a very entertaining way.
How to Dress a Dragon
Published: January 26, 2016
If you have to dress a dragon, you must be prepared to catch him as he flies by. Also, beware of ticklish toes, shirts with buttons, and hats that do not fit neatly between his horns!
In this charming, second-person narrative, our little boy hero imparts his infinite knowledge of how to dress a dragon, a task that isn’t quite as easy as it may seem. With helpful hints like, You may have to tickle-tackle him to the floor and give him belly kisses, and warnings like, Dragons do not like shirts. But they do like capes ! this story is not only delightfully entertaining, but extremely endearing. Author Thelma Lynne Godin and illustrator Eric Barclay come together perfectly to bring this fantasy to life!
Little Wing Learns to Fly
Published: June 14, 2016
No matter how hard Little Wing tries to fly, he always flops . . . until one day when his fluttering takes him above the clouds and far away—maybe too far away! Lost in the sky, Little Wing has to find his way home. But thanks to a special someone, he learns the importance of dragon rules. And with a helping wing to guide him, Little Wing can be flip, flop, fearless!
Dragon Was Terrible
Published: August 23, 2016
We all know dragons are terrible, but this one is especially terrible. He scribbles in books. He steals candy from baby unicorns. He even burps in church. Seriously, who does that? Dragon, that’s who. The king, the knights, and the villagers are desperate to take down this beast once and for all. But sometimes it’s up to the unlikeliest of heroes to tame a dragon this terrible.
King Jack and the Dragon
Published: August 18, 2011
Night is falling and playtime is nearly over. But brave King Jack and his faithful knights Zak and Caspar are still protecting their castle fort from fierce dragons and terrible beasts. This captivating, joyful make-believe adventure is the perfect bedtime story for brave children everywhere. Fans of Goodnight, Goodnight, Construction Site and Dinosaur Roar will especially enjoy this imaginative tale.
Pete the Cat: Sir Pete the Brave
Published: June 28, 2016
When Lady Callie, the most awesome harpist in all the land, goes missing, it’s up to Sir Pete to save her. But when he ends up trapped in a dragon’s lair, Lady Callie might have to do the saving.
Pete the Cat: Sir Pete the Brave is a My First I Can Read book, which means it’s perfect for shared reading with a child.
There Was an Old Dragon Who Swallowed a Knight
Published: August 4, 2015
We all know that “there was an old lady” who swallowed lots of things. Now meet the old dragon who swallows pretty much an entire kingdom! Will he ever learn a little moderation?! This rollicking rhyme is full to bursting with sight gags, silly characters, and plenty of burps! Parents and kids alike will delight in Ben Mantle’s precisely funny illustrations and in Penny Parker Klostermann’s wacky rhymes.
Dear Dragon
Published: September 6, 2016
George and Blaise are pen pals, and they write letters to each other about everything: their pets, birthdays, favorite sports, and science fair projects. There’s just one thing that the two friends don’t know: George is a human, while Blaise is a dragon! What will happen when these pen pals finally meet face-to-face?
The Dragon and the Nibblesome Knight
Published: August 21, 2018
A case of mistaken identity allows two sworn enemies―a young dragon and knight―to become friends. But what will they do when they discover the truth? The Dragon and the Nibblesome Knight is a funny, rhyming read-aloud picture book illustrated by Benji Davies, of The Storm Whale.
Dragon Post
Published: October 1, 2018
A fiery story about friendship and asking for help from award-winning author-illustrator Emma Yarlett.One day Alex finds a dragon living in the cupboard under the stairs. Luckily he knows just what to do. He writes letters to lots of different people – including the fire brigade and the butcher – to ask how he should take care of his surprise visitor. Children will love opening the five envelopes and reading the hilarious letters to Alex and then following his magical adventure with his new fiery friend.
Have You Seen My Dragon?
Published: April 8, 2014
In the heart of the city, among the taxis and towers, a small boy travels uptown and down, searching for his friend. Readers will certainly spot the glorious beast, plus an array of big-city icons they can count. Is the dragon taking the crosstown bus, or breathing his fiery breath below a busy street? Maybe he took a taxi to the zoo or is playing with the dogs in the park. Steve Light’s masterful pen-and-ink illustrations, decorated with meticulous splashes of color, elevate this counting book (numbers 1–20) to new heights. Maybe the dragon is up there, too!
Zog
Published: January 1, 2010
Zog is the keenest dragon in school. He’s also the most accident-prone. Luckily, a mysterious little girl always comes by and patches up his bumps and bruises. But will she be able to help him with his toughest test: capturing a princess? This is a wonderfully funny new story from the creators of “The Gruffalo and “Stick Man”.
Not Your Typical Dragon
Published: February 7, 2013
Everybody knows your typical dragon breathes fire.
But when Crispin tries to breathe fire on his seventh birthday, fire doesn’t come out—only whipped cream! Each time Crispin tries to breathe fire, he ends up with
Band-Aids
marshmallows
teddy bears?
Crispin wonders if he’ll ever find his inner fire. But when a family emergency breaks out, it takes a little dragon with not-so-typical abilities to save the day.
Dragons: Father and Son
Published: September 5, 2017
Young Drake the dragon is sent to the local village to cause some mischief and start a fire. But Drake has only ever breathed fire to roast a tasty caterpillar. How will be burn down a whole house? Or a school? Or even an old wooden shack? Has Drake got what it takes to make his father proud?
Dragons: Father and Son is a funny and moving story about the bonds between fathers and children, with a positive, peaceful message – and all the magic and mayhem you’d hope for in a tale about dragons.
Dragons Are Real!
Published: March 26, 2019
Moonlight and courage and sparks, oh my! That’s what dragons are made of. Did you know that dragons don’t just breathe fire…they sneeze it? Or that they love to barbecue–even their vegetables? Fantasy lovers will be tickled to learn all sorts of “facts” about these Mythical Creatures in Holly Hatam’s (#1 New York Times bestselling illustrator) unique new series. Look for Unicorns are Real, too!
This Book Is Not About Dragons
Published: September 13, 2016
Meet a mouse narrator who stubbornly insists that this book contains absolutely no dragons—not even a claw nor a flame nor any large, pointy scales. Readers will know better—and enjoy being in on the joke—as a flock of dragons chase the mouse to the very end of the book within the book. Suspense builds humorously as the energetic text insists there are no dragons in this book, leading to a clever, unexpected ending. Clever artwork by Fred Koehler provides fun scenes to linger on and details to discover over multiple readings.
When a Dragon Comes to Stay
Published: March 16, 2021
Read the companion book, When a Dragon Goes to School, together with this adorable title. Little dragon visits her toddler friends. Will she behave herself? Of course! Dragons do their best to have good manners. But sometimes, everyone needs a reminder of how important they are. It will be hard for readers not to fall in love with the adorable dragon as she charms her friends and helps them learn their manners.
Dragon Meets Boy
Published: June 30, 2020
One summer day a boy meets a dragon. They become instant friends and share incredible adventures together. When Boy is sad, Dragon cheers him up. When Boy is scared, Dragon makes him feel brave. But, in time, things start to change. Boy gets bigger, while Dragon stays the same. Dragon seems so lonely, until the circle continues with a new generation with Boy’s daughter!
Old MacDonald Had a Dragon
Published: October 9, 2012
Old MacDonald had a farm, E-I-E-I-O! And on that farm he had…a dragon? The animals aren’t happy that there’s a dragon on the farm. But Old MacDonald likes his dragon…until it starts swallowing up the animals! Can Old MacDonald save his farm before it’s too late? Find out in this silly adaptation of the popular song. Christopher Santoro’s brilliant artwork combines with Ken Baker’s fun text for a story sure to tickle kids’ funny bones.
There they are: 40 great picture books about dragons! Which of these books have you read and loved? What did I miss?
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