The Snow Dragon

This book is very nicely presented, with quality pictures and weighty paper. I was disappointed with the actual story though. The language is unnecessarily adult but the storyline is predictable for anyone over 5. Phrases like "There might be a woman in pinstripe trying to tear her down, but here was a dragon, building her up" (punctuation as printed) or "Today was a bittersweet day. It was her friend Jack's Miracle Day." are common. Emotions are spelled out in a really un-poetic way, not allowing the reader to make their own connections or feel their own feelings. There is not much originality or imagination here. Vocabulary level makes this suitable for 7+ readers but storyline interest is more like age 5-6. There are a lot of great children's books around these days but unfortunately this isn't one of them.As an aside, my delivery was forced through the letterbox so the book is mis-shapen. However, my star rating is based on the book content only.

Of course, when this book arrived, I just HAD to read it (as a sucker for dragons) despite it being a Christmas gift for a great-niece! I thought it might be a bit young for her, but at eight, she's at the transitional stage between picture books and 'the big stuff'! Her Mum said it would be perfect.The illustrations are magical and the story, although a tad unrealistic from an adult point of view, carries a lovely message, and anyway, kids don't worry about things like that! Their ability to suspend disbelief is legendary! The book is recommended for six upwards, but I'd say younger children would love it too, if it's read to them.

A horrible horrible story. I can’t see anyone ever wanting to read this to any child. There is an orphaned girl who gets chained up outside in an orphanage. No I’m not kidding. Horrendous. Going straight in the bin so as to make sure no I’ve else attempts to read it.

This magical tale packs a punch. It touches the insecurities and longings for love and home in us all, and provides all the hope that we need at a time of year when loneliness and sadness can overwhelm. As ever with Abi Elphinstone's books, hope wins over despair but only after the pain has been acknowledged and respected. This book will make children and adults smile but also shed a tear.

Beautiful illustrations but it’s difficult to know what age this book is aimed at. The dog being set on the poor orphan is disturbing.