The Tale of Custard the Dragon

by Ogden Nash

Book Overview

In this humorous poem, Custard the cowardly dragon saves the day when a pirate threatens Belinda and her pet animals.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0316590312
• ISBN13: 9780316590310
• Release Date: April 1998
• Publisher: Little, Brown Books for Young Readers
• Length: 32 Pages
• Weight: 0.30 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.1" x 8.1" x 10.0"
• Age Range: 4 to 8 years
• Grade Range: Preschool to Grade 3

Customer Reviews

Great story!

I loved this story as a child and my 2 year old loves it too!

So much fun - made me want a dragon...

"Guess what happened in the little white house/ Where Belinda lived with a little gray mouse,/ And a kitten, and a puppy, and a little red wagon,/ and a realio, trulio, little pet dragon." I personally feel that lyrical poetry is a great tool to help children learn to read. It helps them to feel the rhythms of the English language, they can anticipate what will come next, and then they can memorize passages - it's just a wonderful thing.So many kids have loved this book - I read a review about some of the characters being "mean" to Custard... I can see what the reviewer meant, but I don't agree - the characters are all sort of larger than life and absurd in their own way. I don't think that they come off as mean - but that's just my opinion...

One of my favorites & a wonderful read-aloud!

This is absolutely one of the best books out there! I am a teacher and I enjoy reading this book immensely. The story is fun and whimsical to read. While one reviewer was "upset" by how the other characters were not very empathetic to Custard's fears and even teased him, I look at this aspect of the book as an opportunity to discuss it with my students and my 3 children. It's a great springboard into a discussion on kindness and perspective. Whatever you do, don't pass this one up because of that review. I was amazed this book had less than 5 stars. Parents will love reading this to their children. Also, a great discussion on the true meaning of bravery can ensue as a result of this book.

Custard The Dragon

This is a wonderful, wonderful book. The story is great for kids to adults, I bought for my grandkids and myself. The illustrations are fabulous. The language is smart, smart, smart.

A delight to read to a child!

We first were introduced to this book at the public library. My child just loved the book! My husband and I loved the book so much that we decided that this book would make a great addition to our library, so, we bought it. Now we have found the sequel and it's just as delightful as the first. YOU WONT GO WRONG BUYING THIS BOOK! It's a joy to read everytime! Not only for kids, but adults can enjoy also!