The Different Dragon

A picture-book with a purpose, The Different Dragon is a bedtime story within a bedtime story. Noah, a young boy with two mothers, enjoys a wonderful, and interactive, bedtime story with Go-Ma (one of his mothers), learning along the way that being different isn't just "OK," it's something to be welcomed.

While not quite as natural as Pija Lindebaum's recent Mini Mia and Her Darling Uncle in its incorporation of the theme of same-sex couples into its narrative, this picture book does have some charm as a bedtime story, and is never overwhelmed by its didactic purpose. It is a welcome addition to the all-too short list of picture books featuring same-sex parents.

I wasn't super taken with this story about a little boy and the story one of his mothers tells him about a dragon who is different. I did, however, really enjoy the way the boy and his mother tell the story together by her prompting him and him filling in the details he was interested it.

Young Noah and one of his mothers create a bedtime fantasy story together about travelling on a boat and visiting a dragon that doesn't want to be what people expect him to be. Standard story on whole - a bit of a convoluted narrative in getting the message out about being different - assuming this connects with Noah's experience of being the son of a lesbian couple. I did find it strange that you never see the two mothers interact with one another. Not great, but not offensive.

Noah is getting ready for bed. When it's time to lie down, he and his Go-Ma make up a story together. The story is about a sailing trip and a dragon who worries that he's not like dragons are supposed to be. The playful, glowing illustrations show scenes from Noah's bedtime routine and story, and the text promotes a message of inclusion. The fact that Noah has two mothers is not the central focus of this story, but it is mentioned and shown in the illustrations. Ages 5-9. Recommended for additional purchase.

From Amazon: This bedtime story about bedtime stories shows how the wonderful care and curiosity of a little boy, with some help from his [two] willing moms, can lead to magical and unexpected places. Join Noah and his cat, Diva, on this nighttime adventure and you too will leave with an unforgettable new dragon friend!