Overview and Outcomes:

This is a three-week Writing Root for Dragon Post by Emma Yarlett. The Writing Root begins with children discovering clues to suggest a creature is inhabiting a cupboard in the school and making inferences about what the creature could be. They then begin to read the book, meeting Alex (the main character) and the dragon he discovers in his basement. They write a letter in role as Alex asking for help and then a letter of advice to help Alex with his situation. Through the story, children find out how to look after a dragon and write instructions for dousing a dragon, menus for feeding a dragon and a journey guide for flying with a dragon. Children also connect and empathise with the main character, writing speech and thought bubbles in role. Throughout the sequence, children revisit the cupboard in the school where a creature is hiding with these interactions mirroring the key events in the story. The sequence culminates with children writing a guide for how to look after a dragon, applying the knowledge that they have gained throughout the story.

Synopsis of Text:

A fiery story about friendship and asking for help from award-winning author-illustrator Emma Yarlett. One day Alex finds a dragon living under his stairs. He isn't sure what to do - but luckily he knows just who to ask for help. Open the envelopes and read the hilarious letters Alex receives from the fire brigade, the butcher and more as he tries to take care of his new friend. Who would have thought having a dragon for a pet would be so tricky? A joyful, touching and vibrantly illustrated interactive book.

Text Rationale:

This is a brilliant book for inspiring imagination and creativity in play and in writing by award-winning author-illustrator, Emma Yarlett. It combines fantasy with everyday life as the main character deals with the very practical challenges of looking after a dragon in his house. It is also a valuable text for understanding the many different purposes of letter writing and could support a wider conversation around the different ways that we share written correspondence in modern life.

Links and themes:

Friendship and kindness, solving problems, helping and caring for others, overcoming challenges

Date written: March 2025