Step into the chaotic and hilarious world of The Dragonsitter, where a mischievous pet dragon turns a simple favor into a whirlwind of adventure! Written by Josh Lacey, this charming children’s series follows young Eddie Smith-Pickle as he navigates the absurdity of caring for his uncle’s unruly dragon through a series of frantic emails. Perfect for young readers aged 6–10, The Dragonsitter blends fantasy, humor, and relatable family dynamics, making it a delightful addition to children’s literature.
With its unique epistolary style and laugh-out-loud moments, the series captures the chaos of responsibility with a dragon-sized twist. From burning curtains to devouring pet rabbits, Eddie’s adventures are as heartwarming as they are hilarious, offering a fresh take on the classic ‘pet gone wrong’ trope.
How Dragonsitter Began
British author Josh Lacey, a former journalist, teacher, and screenwriter, kicked off The Dragonsitter series in 2012 with the first book, inspired by his love for accessible, funny stories for young readers. Lacey, also known for his Grk series under the pseudonym Joshua Doder, wanted to craft a tale that combined the fantastical allure of dragons with the grounded, everyday struggles of childhood. The result was a series told entirely through emails, a format that feels modern and engaging, especially for tech-savvy kids. Illustrated by Garry Parsons, whose playful cartoons amplify the dragon’s chaos, the series quickly gained traction for its wit and brevity.
The Heart of Dragonsitter
The Dragonsitter series spans ten books, each a short, standalone adventure packed with humor and heart. In the first book, The Dragonsitter (2012), Eddie agrees to look after Uncle Morton’s dragon, only to face chaos as the dragon eats his sister’s rabbit, sets the curtains ablaze, and terrorizes the mailman. The Dragonsitter Takes Off (2013) sees Eddie grappling with a dragon refusing to eat, while The Dragonsitter’s Castle (2013) throws Eddie and the dragons into a chaotic Christmas at a castle. The Dragonsitter in the Land of the Dragons (2019) takes Eddie to Mongolia for a thrilling dragon battle, showcasing the series’ adventurous spirit.
The series’ themes revolve around responsibility, problem-solving, and family bonds, wrapped in a fantastical package. Eddie’s emails to his unreliable Uncle Morton reveal his growing confidence in handling crises, making him a relatable hero for young readers. The epistolary format adds a unique layer, mimicking real-life communication while keeping the pacing snappy. Settings range from Eddie’s suburban home to exotic locales like Mongolia, blending the mundane with the magical. Garry Parsons’ illustrations, often framed as email attachments, bring the dragon’s mischief to life with humor and charm.
Why Dragonsitter Resonates
The Dragonsitter series has carved a niche in children’s literature for its accessibility and humor, appealing to reluctant readers and dragon enthusiasts alike. Its short chapters and email format make it ideal for early readers, while the absurd situations keep both kids and adults chuckling. Reviews praise its clever comedy and relatable themes, with outlets like The Telegraph calling it “short, sharp, and funny.” The series’ focus on perseverance and creative problem-solving subtly encourages young readers to tackle their own challenges, making it both entertaining and inspiring.
Though not a cultural juggernaut, The Dragonsitter’s lasting appeal lies in its ability to make the fantastical feel personal. Its niche status only adds to its charm, offering a hidden gem for families seeking lighthearted, dragon-filled fun. The series’ nomination for the Roald Dahl Funny Prize underscores its comedic brilliance, ensuring its place in the hearts of young readers.
- Publication Years: 2012–2019
- Number of Books: 10
- Target Age: 6–10
- Award: Shortlisted for the Roald Dahl Funny Prize
Dive into The Dragonsitter and join Eddie’s dragon-filled chaos! Whether you’re a young reader or a parent seeking a fun read-aloud, this series promises laughter, adventure, and a whole lot of dragon mischief.