I was so excited when I received this picture book, as the story took place in Casa Batlló, one of Antoni Gaudí's most renowned buildings that can be found in most architecture books. I was always fond of this building from Gaudi, and have it on my bucket list to visit one day in Barcelona. But, in the meantime, I can image walking through the house and climbing the stairs, as I read this cute picture book to my girls.
I for one, would not go and pet it like Paloma did. Instead, I would probably wake the nanny and run far away to safety, as I wouldn't want it to attack me, or breath fire. But, after reading this book to my girls, and then asking them what they would do if they in Paloma's shoes, I was surprised to hear them both say they would love to make friends with a dragon.
My girls not only loved this fun story, but enjoyed learning about the famed Casa Batlló built by Antoni Gaudi. This book introduces kids to architecture by talking about the columns, shaped like elephant legs, marine-inspired tiles, the ironwork, and even the roof. In addition to the very descriptive text that paints a clear picture in a child's mind, beyond the stunning and vibrant illustrations, this book also contains a brief history of famed architect Gaudi's career and his famous Casa Batlló, which Paloma's story takes place.
About this book:
"A brave young girl, a whimsical house, and a ticklish dragon help young readers see the world through Gaudí's eyes.
Set in Casa Batlló, one of Antoni Gaudí's most renowned buildings, this joyful story introduces young readers to the architect's work, inciting their curiosity and imagination along the way. While her nanny is sleeping, young Paloma hears a noise. She climbs the stairs of her house until she reaches the roof, where a dragon is perched. Unafraid, Paloma reaches out to pet the dragon--but he is ticklish, and as he laughs, he spews a myriad of sea animals that he had unwittingly swallowed. The house is transformed into a dreamy aquarium and the dragon settles into a deep sleep on the roof. Cécile Alix's playful story and Fred Sochard's boldly graphic illustrations are the perfect accompaniment to Gaudí's exuberant vision. As readers make their way through Paloma's home, they are introduced to its fabulous elements--columns shaped like elephant legs; marine-inspired tiles, glass, and ironwork; and of course the spectacularly undulating, iridescent roof, which resembles a sleeping dragon. The end of the book includes a brief history of Gaudí's career and provides helpful background to Paloma's story. Kids will want to linger over the pictures and imagine what their own house would be like if a dragon were living on their roof."
A Dragon on the Roof by Cecile Alix and illustrated by Fred Sochard (Prestel Junior; 9/24/2019; ISBN: 978-3791373911; Hardcover $14.95; Ages 4-8; 32 pages)
Disclosure: I was sent a copy of this book by the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All views shared are mine and mine alone.
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