Grade 3 · Class Reads · Book guide
Dragons in a Bag
by Zetta Elliott
Jaxon expects an ordinary day in Brooklyn. Instead, he meets a witch, discovers baby dragons, and receives an important job with rules that are harder to follow than they first appear.
Book details
Format
Illustrated fantasy novel
Suggested age range
Ages 8–12
Why read it together?
A book worth talking about
The fast-moving fantasy combines magic with an urban setting and a diverse cast. It gives readers plenty to predict while opening discussion about responsibility and asking for help.
- Responsibility
- Family
- Friendship
- Making difficult choices
Before reading
Get ready to wonder
- What responsibilities come with caring for a young animal?
- Why do fantasy stories often give characters rules they must follow?
During and after reading
Talk about the text
- What clues help you predict that Jaxon's day will not be ordinary?
- How do Jaxon's choices show that he is becoming more responsible?
- How does the Brooklyn setting make this fantasy different from one set in a faraway kingdom?
Writing invitation
Respond to the book
Create one new rule for safely caring for a baby dragon. Explain what might happen if a character ignores it.