10+ Best Dragon Books for 9-Year-Olds w/ Exercises (2024)

Are you on the hunt for the perfect dragon books for 9-year-olds? Whether your young reader is a budding dragon enthusiast or you’re just looking to add a spark of adventure to their reading list, you’ve come to the right place. Dive into our curated selections of captivating dragon tales that promise to whisk them away to lands of fire-breathing friends and epic quests. Keep reading to discover our top picks for dragon books that are sure to ignite their imagination!

Fun Dragon Books for 9-Year-Olds

• How to Train Your Dragon by Cressida Cowell
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure
  • Synopsis: This series kicks off with the story of Hiccup Horrendous Haddock III, a young Viking who captures his first dragon as a rite of passage. However, Hiccup's dragon, Toothless, isn't what he expected, and their unique friendship turns into an epic adventure.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's packed with humor and action, which makes it a great pick to keep young readers engaged. The story also emphasizes the value of intelligence and kindness over brute strength.
  • Perfect for: Kids who love adventure and humor, and anyone interested in stories about friendship and overcoming challenges.

• The Dragonet Prophecy by Tui T. Sutherland
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure
  • Synopsis: This is the first book in the "Wings of Fire" series. It follows five dragonets who are chosen to fulfill an ancient prophecy and end a long-standing war among the dragon tribes of Pyrrhia.
  • Why we recommend this book: It introduces a rich world filled with different dragon tribes and cultures, fostering an interest in fantasy and imaginative thinking.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who are fans of epic tales and mythical creatures.

• Kenny & the Dragon by Tony DiTerlizzi
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Friendship
  • Synopsis: Kenny, a young rabbit, befriends a peaceful, book-loving dragon named Grahame. When the townsfolk call for the dragon to be slain, Kenny must find a way to save his new friend.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a beautifully illustrated and heartwarming story that teaches about acceptance and the value of friendships.
  • Perfect for: Children who enjoy stories about unlikely friendships and those who love tales with moral lessons.

• Where the Mountain Meets the Moon by Grace Lin
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure, Folklore
  • Synopsis: Inspired by Chinese folklore, this story follows Minli, who sets out on a journey to find the Old Man on the Moon and change her family's fortune. Along the way, she meets a dragon who can't fly, and together they explore a magical world.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines adventure with elements of folklore, enhancing creativity and cultural appreciation.
  • Perfect for: Young readers interested in other cultures and those who enjoy stories that blend fantasy with life lessons.

• Dragon Rider by Cornelia Funke
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure
  • Synopsis: The tale of Firedrake, a silver dragon, who embarks on a quest with a boy named Ben and a brownie named Sorrel to find the mythical Rim of Heaven and save his family from humans.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's an enthralling adventure that promotes themes of bravery and loyalty.
  • Perfect for: Kids who love epic journeys and magical creatures, encouraging a deeper engagement with reading through an immersive narrative.

Educational Dragon Books for 9-Year-Olds

• The Ice Dragon by George R. R. Martin, illustrated by Luis Royo
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure
  • Synopsis: This tale follows Adara, a young girl who befriends an ice dragon, a creature feared by all in her village. Together, they embark on a magical journey to save her world from fiery invaders.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Empathy, courage, and understanding of complex narratives
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines Martin's skillful storytelling with Royo's captivating illustrations, creating a rich and engaging experience.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy thrilling adventures and magical, mythical creatures.

• The Dragon with a Chocolate Heart by Stephanie Burgis
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Aventurine, a young dragon, is transformed into a human girl by a magical hot chocolate. She sets out to explore the human world and discovers her passion for making chocolate.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Creativity, self-discovery, and entrepreneurial skills
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a delightful story that encourages readers to find and follow their passions, no matter how unexpected they may be.
  • Perfect for: Kids who love fantasy with a sweet twist and those interested in cooking and business.

• Dragonology: The Complete Book of Dragons by Dr. Ernest Drake, illustrated by Wayne Anderson, Douglas Carrel, and Helen Ward
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Non-fiction
  • Synopsis: Purporting to be Dr. Ernest Drake's comprehensive guide to dragons, this book explores different types of dragons, their behaviors, and how to interact with them.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Critical thinking, mythology, and scientific inquiry
  • Why we recommend this book: It's presented as a serious scientific text, which makes learning about mythical creatures an imaginative and educational experience.
  • Perfect for: Aspiring dragonologists and young readers who love mixing science with fantasy.

• The Boy Who Grew Dragons by Andy Shepherd, illustrated by Sara Ogilvie
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure
  • Synopsis: When Tomas discovers a strange tree that grows dragons instead of fruit, his life becomes filled with fiery chaos and heartwarming adventures.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Responsibility, problem-solving, and imaginative thinking
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a fun and quirky story that teaches about the consequences and joys of taking care of another creature.
  • Perfect for: Children who love stories about pets and fantastical twists on everyday life.

• Zog by Julia Donaldson, illustrated by Axel Scheffler
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Educational
  • Synopsis: Zog, an eager but clumsy dragon, attends Dragon School to learn all the things that dragons need to know. Each year he meets a girl who helps him through his accidents and mishaps.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Perseverance, friendship, and school readiness
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a charming story with rhythmic text and engaging illustrations that highlight the importance of persistence and help.
  • Perfect for: Preschoolers and early school-age children learning about school life and helping others.

Challenging Dragon Books for 9-Year-Olds

• A Dragon's Guide to the Care and Feeding of Humans by Laurence Yep and Joanne Ryder, illustrated by Mary GrandPré
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Humor
  • Synopsis: Miss Drake, a centuries-old dragon, finds herself reluctantly caring for a pet human, Winnie. Together, they tackle magical mishaps and supernatural villains in San Francisco.
  • Why this book is challenging: The narrative weaves complex themes of friendship and responsibility with rich vocabulary and a multi-layered plot.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a whimsical yet thoughtful exploration of cross-species friendship and the responsibilities that come with caring for someone different from oneself.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy tales of magic and mystery with a dose of humor.

• The Last Dragon Chronicles: The Fire Within by Chris d'Lacey
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure
  • Synopsis: When David moves in with Liz and her daughter, Lucy, he discovers that they are guardians of magical clay dragons that come to life. David becomes involved in an adventure that spans different dimensions and time itself.
  • Why this book is challenging: It introduces complex concepts of magic and parallel worlds, demanding a higher level of comprehension and imagination.
  • Why we recommend this book: This series opener sets the stage for a captivating saga that combines intricate plot lines with emotional depth.
  • Perfect for: Advanced young readers who are fascinated by detailed fantasy worlds and epic narratives.

• Dragon Slippers by Jessica Day George
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Orphaned and sent to serve an evil dragon, Creel instead forms a bargain with the dragon and sets off on an adventure with a pair of enchanted slippers that can change her life.
  • Why this book is challenging: The story features nuanced characters and a complex plot involving political intrigue and personal growth.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's an empowering tale that highlights the importance of resourcefulness and courage in overcoming adversity.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy strong female protagonists and stories of adventure and self-discovery.

• Dealing with Dragons by Patricia C. Wrede
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Humor
  • Synopsis: Princess Cimorene is tired of her boring royal life, so she volunteers to be the captive of a dragon, only to find herself embroiled in a battle against a group of evil wizards.
  • Why this book is challenging: This book turns traditional fairy tale tropes on their head, requiring readers to think critically about stereotypes and expectations.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a humorous and clever twist on the fantasy genre, encouraging independence and critical thinking.
  • Perfect for: Kids who like stories that challenge conventional roles and those who enjoy witty, subversive tales.

• The Dragon in the Sock Drawer by Kate Klimo
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Cousins Jesse and Daisy find a rock that hatches a dragon, which they must protect from forces that seek to exploit its powers.
  • Why this book is challenging: It blends scientific inquiry with fantasy, challenging readers to maintain a balance between imagination and logical thinking.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a fun introduction to fantasy adventure that also teaches about the responsibilities of caring for another creature.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy a blend of realism and fantasy, and those interested in stories about magical creatures in the modern world.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're diving into the enchanting world of dragon books with your 9-year-old, you're in for a treat! Not only are these books filled with adventure and magic, but they also offer a fantastic opportunity to develop great reading habits. Here are some fun and effective exercises to enhance your child's reading experience:

• Create a Dragon Glossary
  • What it is: Make a small booklet or list of all the dragon-related terms and characters.
  • How it helps: Enhances understanding of the book’s content and builds vocabulary.
  • Tips: Encourage your child to add to the glossary after each reading session.

• Draw the Story
  • What it is: After reading a chapter, draw scenes or characters from the story.
  • How it helps: Reinforces comprehension and allows creative expression.
  • Tips: Use a mix of crayons, markers, or paints to make the activity more engaging.

• Chapter Summaries
  • What it is: Write a short summary of each chapter in a notebook.
  • How it helps: Improves retention and helps in understanding the story structure.
  • Tips: Keep the summaries brief and fun by using bullet points or small doodles.

• Predict the Plot
  • What it is: Before starting a new chapter, guess what might happen next.
  • How it helps: Stimulates imagination and anticipatory reading skills.
  • Tips: Discuss predictions and see how they match up as you read along.

• Reading Aloud
  • What it is: Take turns reading pages or chapters aloud to each other.
  • How it helps: Enhances fluency and pronunciation skills.
  • Tips: Use different voices for different characters to make it more entertaining.

• Book-Based Trivia Game
  • What it is: Create trivia questions based on the book and quiz each other.
  • How it helps: Encourages detailed attention to the text and reinforces memory.
  • Tips: Reward correct answers with small treats or privileges.

• Connect to Real Life
  • What it is: Relate events or characters in the book to real-life experiences or people.
  • How it helps: Deepens understanding and personal connection to the story.
  • Tips: Share your own stories that relate to the book’s themes or characters.

By incorporating these exercises into your reading routine, you'll not only make reading more interactive and fun but also build a stronger foundation for your child’s literacy skills. So grab those dragon books and let the magical journey of reading and learning begin! Happy reading!