Tink is a young dragon of 83-years (late teenage in dragon lives). His angsts are about being small, the wrong color, and pimply skin instead of dragon scales. Tink works in a picture frame shop owned by a large bear who wears Hawaiian shirts (that change), and red rubber clogs. Tink doesn't see the differences or quirks of every other dragon in the shop--making them unique-- and all the same. He only sees his own differences... until he is called on an adventure putting him in danger--but to save himself, as well as reveal the new Fairy Princess. Although the adventure is dangerous and heroic, it is not too scary for young children to be read to. (Laura Reynolds, the artist, established the ground rules of our creating this story. First, there are no scary animals or situations.) This is a two-part parable about self-discovery for those who are or believe they are different from others. This story can be enjoyed for itself or can be used as a tool for understanding that differences do not mean less or more... but another part of the whole. The second part of the parable is in Tink's performing his challenge. Without the help and support of his brother, Boomer, and friends, he could not finish his challenge and become the self-aware dragon he is destined to be. 'The Very Littlest Dragon' is in the same vein as Hans Christian Anderson's parable, 'The Ugly Duckling', but continues in a more complete holistic manner. Finding one's purpose and direction is the hallmark of becoming an adult. Overcoming self-doubt and focus is the hardest step-- unless you can be a dragon.
