posted on 19 Mar 2021

Storm Dragon by Dianne Hofmeyr, illustrated by Carol Thompson

Over the years I have amassed lots of picture books featuring grandparents so am always delighted to find another one to add to my growing collection. Now that I have my own young grandchildren, I know the luxury of spending long, happy times together with no responsibilities other than having fun.  I particularly like stories that feature a strong relationship between the elderly adult and child where they are clearly enjoying their precious time together. The classic picture book ‘Granpa’ by John Burningham captured this happy harmony perfectly and is a hard act to follow,  but I was very impressed with this one.

I am a big admirer of Carol Thompson’s softly coloured illustrations which always depict big friendly faces and a rather chaotic but exciting atmosphere. The cover shows Grandpa, his grandchild and the dog setting off together for what looks like a wild and wonderful beach adventure.  The first page sets the scene with the windswept little house on the beach:

‘STORM! STORM!

Rain raps the window.

Wind rattles the door’.

But who cares about bad weather? Grandpa is keen for them to go dragon hunting armed with a spyglass and a shield. Together they march towards the fierce looking sea – the reader can almost hear the roar of the waves. As they get closer to the shore the sea gets louder and fills more of the page. The gorgeous swirls of blues, greens and purples will surely inspire some wonderful paintings from young readers.   

Can they turn back the dragon? How will a pirate ship help them? Despite their efforts it seems that a real sea dragon might be coming to get them! The final pages are surely inspired by ‘Going on a Bear Hunt’ by Michael Rosen and Helen Oxenbury as they hurriedly retrace their steps to the safety of home.  

How marvellous to have the time and space to spend time looking for dragon footprints, dragon jewels and even a dragon baby. The very simple but effective text provides plenty of opportunities for joining in and there is so much to look at in the pictures that spill across every double page spread. This will be a great hit with everyone who loves to remember the power of imagination, the special allure of the seaside and the importance of play.

Karen Argent

March 2021