My Father’s Dragon is a short novel by Ruth Stiles Gannett. This book won a Newbery Honor award in 1949. The story is about the narrator’s father, Elmer Elevator, when he was a young boy. Elmer is talking to a stray cat one day when he mentions that he has always wanted to be able to fly wherever he wants. Upon hearing this, the cat tells Elmer about a young dragon who is being held captive at Wild Island. According to the cat, the dragon is forced to carry passengers across a long river. The dragon is cruelly beaten by his captors whenever he complains. Elmer realizes that if he were to rescue the dragon, his dream of flying would come true. He starts packing immediately and sets off on a perilous quest to find and rescue the dragon.

This book is thoroughly enjoyable and satisfying, despite its short length. I found it very easy read and understand, and Ruth Chrisman Gannett’s illustrations are extremely charming and well-done. The story is action-packed and moves at a very fast pace. At times it even felt a bit rushed and overly simplistic, to be honest.  However, I can understand how this would be appealing to a young reader, and this book is certainly deserving of the Newbery award. I was entertained by this book and I think it is highly creative and imaginative. Older readers may not find this book appealing, but I would definitely recommend it to young readers and to anyone who enjoys children’s books.