The Little Girl and the Snow Dragon

Would you like a dragon for a friend? A fantasy story set in an unspecified land, a long time ago when magic was still strong in the world. It tells how a young peasant girl desperately aspires to become a princess so that she and her family can enjoy a better life. Her desire becomes overwhelming, so when she hears that there is a dragon that may help her realise her dream, she resolves to seek him out and ask for his help. She journeys alone to the cave where she was told he lives and bravely ventures inside. Well prepared for her encounter, she had learned the etiquette she needed and wins his trust. An unlikely friendship between them is then formed and over a summer, they both benefit from their shared experiences and adventures involving fairies, goblins, friends, dancing, baking, woodland creatures, an evil witch and a bad guy who gets his comeuppance! They learn much from each other as the friendship grows and strengthens bringing them closer to each other. At the end of the summer, the relationship comes to an end when the dragon's instinct drives him to depart to a far away land. Such is his nature, he cannot deny this urge but despite being saddened, the little girl is forever shaped by their time together. At points in the story, the reader is prompted to answer questions relating to that section to encourage them to discuss and explore the possibilities raised in the narrative.

A retired motor engineer who now restores pinball machines and builds automata. Married 48 years but still on probation. Almost house trained. His Granddaughter is the sun in his sky. Answers to the name 'Grumpy.' Prides himself on his sultana scones. Has a fluffy rabbit called 'Bunny.' Drives an old Cadillac convertible car. Only approach if offering cake or chocolate. Mostly harmless.