CLEAR (Children’s Lit Evaluation And Review)

Title: Gondra’s Treasure
Author: Linda Sue Park
Illustrator: Jennifer Black Reinhardt
Publisher: Clarion Books
Copyright: 2019
Hardback X Paperback Board Book Number of Pages
Fiction X Nonfiction
Age/Grade: Toddler through 3rd Grade
Format: Picture Book
Illustration Type: Line drawings/color
Illustration Rating: Good
Genres: Animal, Family, Fantasy, Individuality
Literary Merit: Very Good
Characterization: Very Good
Evaluation: Recommend
Worch Memorial Library Reviewer: Patty Simon Date:
Review: The book does a good job of explaining the differences in each parent who come from different home lands and how these differences created Gondra’s uniqueness. ( )

Great book about a young female dragon and her parents who were had some significant differences. Mom dragon could fly with her wings and had golden scales. Dad flew also but with his magic. The story has a duel message. First I gathered that two, although having some noteworthy differences, can share a relationship or bond and share and create something wonderful together. Secondly, I noted that Gondra's parents being different they loved and respected each other. What a wonderful story and so needed in our schools and society.

I appreciated the the author's note, providing information on the Chinese culture as it relates to dragon and where the myths originated from.

I like that race was sort of removed. Just a happy family of dragons desiring to find a way to get along with us humans and care for their new beautiful treasure, Gondra! Great story. Love the water colored painted illustrations by Reinhardt. Beautifully rendered. ( )