From School Library Journal
PreS-Gr 2—With endpapers featuring cupcakes, pink pigs, friendly cows, and sprinkled cookies, this book will have children on the path to sweet dreams before they have turned a single page. A young child with tan skin and a black bob with the pronouns of "they" and "their" is ready for bed—pajamas on, teeth brushed, book read—but is reluctant to go to sleep due to a concern about having bad dreams. Momma's soothing response: "If you need to, you can always call on the Good Dream Dragon." After making the usual and not-so-usual attempts at falling asleep, including counting sheep, ducks, cows, and pigs, the youngster summons the dragon. The periwinkle-and-purple creature soon appears in the bedroom with a flourish and proclaims she will take the child to the dreams, since the dreams are not arriving on their own. Traveling by dragon entails flying among the stars and comets and ending up in Dreamland, with its quilted countryside, flowers, and butterflies. Stopping in a town made entirely of books, the child relaxes in a comfy chair and reads bedtime stories, including one that reflects the story they are in, until the dragon delivers the sleepy child safely back home. When the youngster begs the dragon to stay, they are reassured there is nothing to fear; their bravery is obvious as courage was revealed by willingness to accompany the flying dragon to distant Dreamland. The full-color digital illustrations extend from margin to margin with some vignettes, and reveal all the actions of the text. It's all as soothing as can be, and will send any child off to peaceful dreams. VERDICT Here is a satisfying tale sure to enlist the imaginations of young listeners for a pleasant bedtime.—Maryann H. Owen
Review
Praise for Good Dream Dragon:
An ALA Rainbow Book List Selection
"Unable to sleep, a child summons the help of the 'Good Dream Dragon' in this fairy tale–like story of nighttime hijinks…. With a final allusion to bravery, Davis lightly inserts emotion into what’s otherwise a pleasantly straightforward bedtime aid."―Publishers Weekly
"The concept of the Good Dream Dragon will reassure little ones who might have nighttime or bad-dream anxiety…. Dreamland itself is, fittingly, safe and whimsical. The illustrations are soft with twilight purples and playful patchwork scenery. The idea of a protective dream guide is perfect for the preschool crowd, often newly aware of nighttime fears. Sweet and gentle, an ideal bedtime read."―Kirkus Reviews
"With endpapers featuring cupcakes, pink pigs, friendly cows, and sprinkled cookies, this book will have children on the path to sweet dreams before they have turned a single page.... It’s all as soothing as can be, and will send any child off to peaceful dreams.... A satisfying tale sure to enlist the imaginations of young listeners for a pleasant bedtime."―SLJ
About the Author
Jacky Davis (she/her) has written many popular children’s books, including the co-creation of the New York Times bestselling Ladybug Girl series. Her other books include: Sunny Side-Up, Black Belt Bunny, Olive & Pekoe, and Agent Lion. She lives in Rosendale, New York with her family and rescue dog that somehow resembles both a lion and a bear. To find out more about Jacky go to blackpolka.com.
Courtney Dawson (she/her/they) is a children’s book illustrator, designer, avid book reader, and mother. She is inspired by the world around her and all of the good in it. Courtney loves to work on projects that are empowering, inclusive, and whimsical. She also enjoys rainy days indoors and painting to Sam Cooke. She resides with her partner, wild toddler, cute baby, and many overwatered plants in Ventura, California. You can view more of Courtney's work by visiting courtneyjdawson.com or @courtneyjdee on Instagram.
