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FERGAL AND THE BAD TEMPER by Robert Starling

FERGAL AND THE BAD TEMPER

by Robert Starling ; illustrated by Robert Starling

Pub Date: April 30th, 2019
ISBN: 978-1-250-19862-4
Publisher: Imprint

A young dragon erupts in fits of fiery fury.

Fergal dislikes being told what to do and when to do it; this state of affairs just is “not FAIR.” Whenever things aren’t fair, Fergal responds with a mouthful of FIRE, destroying everything in the flames’ way. Though he’s contrite afterward, he can’t control his blazing temper despite unfortunate consequences that inevitably ensue. When friends reject his destructive ways, Fergal bemoans the unfairness of that situation to Mom, who explains how badly his behavior has hurt others and himself and then shares her own method for calming down when angry. Fergal tries it soon after and it works, and then he discovers that his animal pals employ useful temper-tempering strategies, too. In the end, Fergal learns to use his fire for his friends’ benefit. This cute British import succinctly and not so subtly conveys a message about tantrums that should settle comfortably on the ears and minds of young readers/listeners. The included strategies may prove helpful to children and harried adults struggling to calm angry youngsters during frustrated outbursts. The illustrations, rendered in acrylic, gouache, and digital media, are appealing and expressive; animal characters represent different species and are depicted in various colors, sizes, and shapes.

Tempers will cool once kids meet Fergal.

(Picture book. 3-6)