Ruth Chrisman Gannett – illustratör

A little boy who has always dreamed of flying stows away on a ship to Wild Island to rescue — and hopefully ride — a captive dragon. Young Elmer outwits hungry tigers, an irate gorilla, cranky crocodiles, and other animals in a charmingly illustrated Newbery honour Book that has delighted generations of readers.

A boy and a talking cat hunt for a dragon on Wild Island, encountering boars, monkeys, lions, crocodiles, a rhinoceros, and more! A Newbery Honor Book (1949).

The much-loved inspiration behind the Netflix film featuring the voices of Whoopi Goldberg, Jacob Tremblay and Gaten MatarazzoWhen Elmer Elevator hears about the baby dragon being held captive on Wild Island, he knows just what to do. First, he packs his knapsack with important supplies, like chewing gum, lollipops and lots of rubber bands. Then he stows away on a ship headed for the island. Along the way, Elmer meets many exotic animals who try to sidetrack him, but Elmer has some tricks up his sleeve … or more precisely, in his knapsack. One way or another, he will rescue the dragon! Three Tales of My Father’s Dragon contains the trilogy of classics that has been delighting children for more than seventy years, and which has inspired the Netflix film: My Father’s Dragon, Elmer and the Dragon and The Dragons of Blueland.

"A real delight." — The New YorkerWhen Elmer Elevator strikes up a friendship with an alley cat, he learns of a baby dragon that is being forced to serve as a ferry for the selfish animals of Wild Island. Elmer determines at once to free the enslaved dragon, and with a bit of advice from the savvy cat, he arms himself with chewing gum, lollipops, rubber bands, and some other unlikely items. With these tools and his own sharp wits, Elmer is prepared to face hungry tigers, cranky crocodiles, and other challenges.Both a Newbery Honor Book and an American Library Association Notable Book, this charming story has delighted generations of readers since its original publication in 1948. The imaginative tale has served as inspiration for a play, as well as a Japanese anime version and a forthcoming animated film. With bold artwork newly reproduced from the artist's originals, this edition of My Father's Dragon is the definitive version of an enduring children's classic.