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The Snow Dragon
You can be late for many things in life, but you should never keep an adventure waiting...
In Griselda Bone's gloomy orphanage, daydreaming is banned, skipping is forbidden and Christmas is well and truly cancelled. But for Phoebe and her sausage dog, Herb, is it possible that magic awaits in the swirling, snow-filled air?
Join them on an enchanting adventure in this beautifully moving story by the bestselling author of Sky Song and The Unmapped Chronicles, Abi Elphinstone, and renowned illustrator Fiona Woodcock.
In Griselda Bone's gloomy orphanage, daydreaming is banned, skipping is forbidden and Christmas is well and truly cancelled. But for Phoebe and her sausage dog, Herb, is it possible that magic awaits in the swirling, snow-filled air?
Join them on an enchanting adventure in this beautifully moving story by the bestselling author of Sky Song and The Unmapped Chronicles, Abi Elphinstone, and renowned illustrator Fiona Woodcock.
48 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2019
About the author
Abi Elphinstone
37 books451 followersAbi Elphinstone grew up in Scotland where she spent most of her childhood building dens, hiding in tree houses and running wild across highland glens. After being coaxed out of her tree house, she studied English at Bristol University and then worked as a teacher.
THE DREAMSNATCHER is her debut novel for 8-12 years (published by Simon & Schuster in 2015). THE SHADOW KEEPER is her second children's book (published by Simon & Schuster in 2016).
When she's not writing, Abi volunteers for Beanstalk, teaches creative writing workshops in schools and travels the world looking for her next story. Her latest adventure involved living with the Kazakh Eagle Hunters in Mongolia…
THE DREAMSNATCHER is her debut novel for 8-12 years (published by Simon & Schuster in 2015). THE SHADOW KEEPER is her second children's book (published by Simon & Schuster in 2016).
When she's not writing, Abi volunteers for Beanstalk, teaches creative writing workshops in schools and travels the world looking for her next story. Her latest adventure involved living with the Kazakh Eagle Hunters in Mongolia…
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews
February 3, 2023
This is quite an unusual picture book, it has more text than your average picture book and seems to be written with older children in mind.
There seemed to be several influences from other stories here. The person in charge of the orphanage is clearly based on Miss Trunchball from Matilda, when the snow dragon appears you can spot Puff the Magic Dragon and The Bear animation based on the book by Raymond Briggs.
The story had a happy ending but there was quite a bit of suffering for a picture book so those reading this to small children might want to have a look through first.
There seemed to be several influences from other stories here. The person in charge of the orphanage is clearly based on Miss Trunchball from Matilda, when the snow dragon appears you can spot Puff the Magic Dragon and The Bear animation based on the book by Raymond Briggs.
The story had a happy ending but there was quite a bit of suffering for a picture book so those reading this to small children might want to have a look through first.
December 13, 2024
”You can be late for many things in life, but you should never keep an adventure waiting…
The Snow Dragon is a gorgeously illustrated children’s book about a girl named Phoebe who lives in an orphanage, with her sausage dog named Herb, and is waiting for her Miracle Day to arrive (to be adopted 🥺).
In Griselda Bone’s gloomy orphanage, daydreaming is banned, skipping is forbidden, and Christmas is well and truly cancelled. Phoebe is truly needing something magical to happen so she can celebrate Christmas, is it possible that this magic awaits one snowy evening?
5 Stars ❄️🐉🤍
The Snow Dragon is a gorgeously illustrated children’s book about a girl named Phoebe who lives in an orphanage, with her sausage dog named Herb, and is waiting for her Miracle Day to arrive (to be adopted 🥺).
In Griselda Bone’s gloomy orphanage, daydreaming is banned, skipping is forbidden, and Christmas is well and truly cancelled. Phoebe is truly needing something magical to happen so she can celebrate Christmas, is it possible that this magic awaits one snowy evening?
5 Stars ❄️🐉🤍
December 11, 2022
The Snow dragon:
Author: Albi Elphinstone
This is a very cute fairy tale. The main characters are a girl, a dog and a snow dragon. The storyline is touching and is about an orphaned girl who does not have a happy life like the other children. I think that this book is suitable for children above 8 years. The message of this book is that having loving parents is a gift that should not be taken for granted.
Great book if you are looking for a Christmas themed fairy tale to read together with your children.
Trigger warnings:
Problematic childhood
Author: Albi Elphinstone
This is a very cute fairy tale. The main characters are a girl, a dog and a snow dragon. The storyline is touching and is about an orphaned girl who does not have a happy life like the other children. I think that this book is suitable for children above 8 years. The message of this book is that having loving parents is a gift that should not be taken for granted.
Great book if you are looking for a Christmas themed fairy tale to read together with your children.
Trigger warnings:
Problematic childhood
November 15, 2020
This is such a beautiful book, the illustrations are so magical and imaginative. I loved the character Herb, the dancing sausage dog!!
November 12, 2019
The magic in this book is so wonderful. You just feel swept up and whisked away on the journey with Phoebe, Herb and the dragon. There is obviously a moral and a strong message caught up in the story and I think personally that it’s one that adults and children should try to remember. The illustrations are just beautiful and need some time taken on them, exploring every aspect.
I would highly recommend this book, obviously it lends itself well to a Christmas gift, but I intend to read it all year round.
I would highly recommend this book, obviously it lends itself well to a Christmas gift, but I intend to read it all year round.
February 2, 2020
“Do you know why my ears are so large?” the dragon whispered. Phoebe shook her head. “So I can listen to all the wonderful things you have to say.”
Possibly the most beautiful and precious little picture book I’ve EVER read. 😭💙❄️
Possibly the most beautiful and precious little picture book I’ve EVER read. 😭💙❄️
April 27, 2020
This was so lovely. The illustrations were beautiful and the story was simple but encahnting. Very much enjoyed it.
January 23, 2020
Nella Casa per Randagi di Griselda Bone (dove i randagi sono bambini e la casa altro non è che un orfanotrofio) vive Phoebe, una bimba di sette anni con i capelli bianchi come gocce di neve e occhi grandi e tondi come pozzanghere. Griselda è una donna severa e crudele; nella sua casa è proibito fantasticare, saltare, giocare e festeggiare il Natale. Phoebie è molto triste e passa il suo tempo a domandarsi se mai riuscirà a trovare una famiglia che la ami come il suo dolce e danzante bassotto Herb. Ma proprio quando tutto sembra perduto, ecco che accade la magia.
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The snow dragon è un’avventura incantata sull’importanza dei desideri e dei sogni che sono il carburante che tiene viva la fiamma della speranza. Una storia magica che parla ai cuori di grandi e piccini attraverso le parole di Abi Elphinstone e le delicate illustrazioni di Fiona Woodcock.
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The snow dragon è un’avventura incantata sull’importanza dei desideri e dei sogni che sono il carburante che tiene viva la fiamma della speranza. Una storia magica che parla ai cuori di grandi e piccini attraverso le parole di Abi Elphinstone e le delicate illustrazioni di Fiona Woodcock.
February 1, 2021
THIS was weird and cute
November 30, 2021
Perfect story to start December with ❤️
November 11, 2019
This has a lovely, magical feel, and the snow dragon himself is just wonderful. My 6-year-old and 11-year-old both really loved it.
October 1, 2022
Ohhhh, so SWEET 🥺🥺🥺
January 15, 2022
I read this as part of Winter Magic, a collection curated by Elphinstone, but I may seek out the illustrated version as I can tell it will add a lot to the story. I found Griselda Bone a strange creation and didn't believe the justification for her behaviour was strong enough. I also found the cadence of the sentences tricky to read aloud, when usually I don't have this problem! However, the ending was beautiful and magical and the Snow Dragon a great creation. Although I found it a little heavy, the message of taking time to notice and appreciate what we have really touched my 9yo - thank you!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 27, 2020
This book reminded me of a cross between Matilda and The Mist Monster. Full of gorgeous illustrations and vivid description, we adventure with Phoebe, Herb the sausage dog and a snow dragon, who comes to cheer Phoebe up, as they escape from Miss Bones and the awful orphanage she lives in just for one night. Everyone from my one year old (in three sittings) to my ten year old loves this whimsical story.
January 18, 2021
How to describe ‘The Snow Dragon’? It’s a gift to give to yourself: to someone you love, it is a gift of wonder and magic, a tale of sadness but above all, hope and joy.
I would read this tucked up together under a cosy blanket on a winter’s day and the world of sparkling magic would come swirling in carried on the wings of a snow dragon.
Longer than most modern picture books, this is for delving into and sharing: a truly magical story.
I would recommend this for:
As there is a certain element of fairytale darkness, perhaps this would be suitable for children aged four or five and above.
It would certainly be a great book for those heading towards reading chapter books.
The Story:
Have you heard of the ‘Miracle Day’? That’s the day a child is chosen for adoption and is allowed to leave Griselda Bone’s Home for Strays. But for Phoebe that day never seems to come and she is eventually the only child left. Cancelling Christmas to give extra lessons instead, Griselda Bone is not impressed with Phoebe who is a ‘Word Mangler of the very worst sort’.
Locked in a kennel overnight, Phoebe is visited by a snow dragon. With his large ears so he can ‘listen to all the wonderful things that you have to say,’ he encourages Phoebe to continue building her self-belief and confidence.
Spreading the message of sharing, the wonder of the world and learning contentment, Phoebe and the dragon embark on an amazing night-time adventure. The joy of seeing the ‘wonderflible’ Northern Lights must be one of the best Christmas presents ever. Without giving the game away, I’ll just say, there is a happy ending
If you’re a dog lover this book will especially appeal with the delightful antics of Herb, the dancing sausage dog but watch out for the game of Chase with the large, grumpy Slobber.
Illustration
Fiona Woodcock has done a wonderful job of conveying Phoebe’s embodiment of bright hope and colour against the dark setting of Griselda Bone’s world.
Ice-cold blues and greens, clever use of black and white with splashes of colour lead us into a wintery world and onwards to the sparkling, starry snow dragon’s story.
Nominated for the 2021 CILIP- Kate Greenaway medal.
If you enjoy this story, you might like:
The Story of Holly and Ivy by Rumor Godden and Barbara Cooney
I would read this tucked up together under a cosy blanket on a winter’s day and the world of sparkling magic would come swirling in carried on the wings of a snow dragon.
Longer than most modern picture books, this is for delving into and sharing: a truly magical story.
I would recommend this for:
As there is a certain element of fairytale darkness, perhaps this would be suitable for children aged four or five and above.
It would certainly be a great book for those heading towards reading chapter books.
The Story:
Have you heard of the ‘Miracle Day’? That’s the day a child is chosen for adoption and is allowed to leave Griselda Bone’s Home for Strays. But for Phoebe that day never seems to come and she is eventually the only child left. Cancelling Christmas to give extra lessons instead, Griselda Bone is not impressed with Phoebe who is a ‘Word Mangler of the very worst sort’.
Locked in a kennel overnight, Phoebe is visited by a snow dragon. With his large ears so he can ‘listen to all the wonderful things that you have to say,’ he encourages Phoebe to continue building her self-belief and confidence.
Spreading the message of sharing, the wonder of the world and learning contentment, Phoebe and the dragon embark on an amazing night-time adventure. The joy of seeing the ‘wonderflible’ Northern Lights must be one of the best Christmas presents ever. Without giving the game away, I’ll just say, there is a happy ending
If you’re a dog lover this book will especially appeal with the delightful antics of Herb, the dancing sausage dog but watch out for the game of Chase with the large, grumpy Slobber.
Illustration
Fiona Woodcock has done a wonderful job of conveying Phoebe’s embodiment of bright hope and colour against the dark setting of Griselda Bone’s world.
Ice-cold blues and greens, clever use of black and white with splashes of colour lead us into a wintery world and onwards to the sparkling, starry snow dragon’s story.
Nominated for the 2021 CILIP- Kate Greenaway medal.
If you enjoy this story, you might like:
The Story of Holly and Ivy by Rumor Godden and Barbara Cooney
May 5, 2026
This was such a sweet and heartwarming story about an Orphan named Phoebe, and her adorable little sausage dog Herb, and the adventure they go on as well as the lesson they learn with a snow dragon. I felt so bad for Phoebe and so relieved when some magic came into the book and found myself being able to lay down and escape into the audiobook in peace. It was a really nice time, and though I wish I had a copy with the illustrations, honestly just having the audiobook was magical enough. I as an adult thoroughly enjoyed basically every aspect about this book (besides the obvious hardships Phoebe is put through), and feel like I would've enjoyed it as a kid as well. I would definitely recommend this to all ages but especially to children or any parents wanting to read this to their child, and regardless if you just want a wonderful, cozy, book (or in my case audiobook) to escape into. Then I recommend this wonderful work
November 22, 2019
At Griselda Bone's awful orphanage Pheobe and her dancing sausage dog Herb have very little to look forward to; after all daydreaming is banned, skipping is forbidden, and Christmas has been cancelled! But when The Snow Dragon appears Pheobe knows that adventure cannot wait! Will the Snow Dragon's magic be enough to bring Pheobe and Herb their very own Miracle Day?
With shades of Roald Dahl's Matilda and the other-worldliness of Enid Blyton's Faraway tree this is a book both kids and adults will love all through the year, not just at Christmas.
Gorgeously illustrated by Fiona Woodcock, this lovely Christmas magic story is perfect for parents to read or for children who love a magical tale. The story is wordier than most picture-story books so very young children might struggle to pay attention for the whole story but it is ideal for primary aged kids and up.
With shades of Roald Dahl's Matilda and the other-worldliness of Enid Blyton's Faraway tree this is a book both kids and adults will love all through the year, not just at Christmas.
Gorgeously illustrated by Fiona Woodcock, this lovely Christmas magic story is perfect for parents to read or for children who love a magical tale. The story is wordier than most picture-story books so very young children might struggle to pay attention for the whole story but it is ideal for primary aged kids and up.
May 28, 2023
Read as an audiobook
I gave myself a rule: no picture books on my favorites list. I'm not the target audience for those sort of books and I don't often get much out of them. But THIS! The Snow Dragon is the exception.
I was browsing picture book audiobooks on Scribd when I happened upon the cover for The Snow Dragon. Honestly, it was the cover that got me. It's beautiful. I read it on a whim and fell in love. The narrator has a lovely British accent. The writing is whimsical and atmospheric. The characters are delightful. The Snow Dragon gave me feels very similar to what I get out of a Roald Dahl book. Because it is actually a Christmas Eve story, it also had a touch of holiday magic like The Nutcracker.
In short: highly recommend! And I want to read everything else by Abi Elphinstone.
I gave myself a rule: no picture books on my favorites list. I'm not the target audience for those sort of books and I don't often get much out of them. But THIS! The Snow Dragon is the exception.
I was browsing picture book audiobooks on Scribd when I happened upon the cover for The Snow Dragon. Honestly, it was the cover that got me. It's beautiful. I read it on a whim and fell in love. The narrator has a lovely British accent. The writing is whimsical and atmospheric. The characters are delightful. The Snow Dragon gave me feels very similar to what I get out of a Roald Dahl book. Because it is actually a Christmas Eve story, it also had a touch of holiday magic like The Nutcracker.
In short: highly recommend! And I want to read everything else by Abi Elphinstone.
February 9, 2022
not sure what compelled me to pick listen to this one in the middle of summer (yay Australian heat lol) but i'm glad i did - and happy coincidence wearing my Lush "Magical Creatures of all Kinds Love Snow Fairy" shirt too haha x
a little into the story i felt like i had already read this before; after a bit of investigation it became apparent that this is a shorter/picture book version of the author's short story "The Snow Dragon" from their anthology collection Winter Magic; which i read last year.
all in all, a lovely story with wonderful illustrations - if you do enjoy this one i recommend checking out Winter Magic xx
a little into the story i felt like i had already read this before; after a bit of investigation it became apparent that this is a shorter/picture book version of the author's short story "The Snow Dragon" from their anthology collection Winter Magic; which i read last year.
all in all, a lovely story with wonderful illustrations - if you do enjoy this one i recommend checking out Winter Magic xx
July 13, 2025
2,5/5 Este es un libro infantil que, con unas ilustraciones preciosas y un audiolibro bien narrado, aborda temas profundos de una forma amigable.
Trata la historia de una niña en un orfanato que ve cómo sus amigos son adoptados mientras ella sigue esperando su “Día Milagroso”, mostrando a los adultos con autoridad como los villanos del cuento (un tanto al estilo "Matilda").
Y aunque el tono melancólico de la historia no me convenció del todo, el libro está bien llevado y deja un lindo mensaje a través de una metáfora. Después de todo, ¿quién no querría encontrarse con un gran dragón blanco y bondadoso en Navidad?
"Be content. Be watchful. Be brave. And never stop believing in miracles."
Trata la historia de una niña en un orfanato que ve cómo sus amigos son adoptados mientras ella sigue esperando su “Día Milagroso”, mostrando a los adultos con autoridad como los villanos del cuento (un tanto al estilo "Matilda").
Y aunque el tono melancólico de la historia no me convenció del todo, el libro está bien llevado y deja un lindo mensaje a través de una metáfora. Después de todo, ¿quién no querría encontrarse con un gran dragón blanco y bondadoso en Navidad?
"Be content. Be watchful. Be brave. And never stop believing in miracles."
December 31, 2019
This was one of my Christmas presents, so I was eager to read it. It is a very charming tale about a young girl called Phoebe, and her sausage dog Herb, who both live within an orphange. As the headmistress of the orphanage has banned laughter and Christmas, Phoebe's festive season seems as though it will be a rather miserable time. But then it starts to snow, and she is able to go on an adventure like no other.
Although this is a short tale, everything about it is just lovely. The illustrations are beautiful - makes me wish that I had the limited edition with the art print. This is one book which has earnt a forever place on my shelves, and I'm glad to end my reading year with it.
Although this is a short tale, everything about it is just lovely. The illustrations are beautiful - makes me wish that I had the limited edition with the art print. This is one book which has earnt a forever place on my shelves, and I'm glad to end my reading year with it.
January 3, 2022
Historien er sød og, selvom det er kort, er delene med hunden sjove ligesom at pigen og dragen er søde og elskelige karaktere med et par gode citater. Men det kunne, selv med den korte længde, være bedre og med mere af det gode og det trækker ned at børnehjemsforstanderen er så overdreven nedrig og modbydelige på en måde der ikke bare er karikeret, som kan være fint i børnehistorier, men trækker det så langt ud i det absurde at det bliver for meget, meningsløst og ikke understøtter resten af historien.
June 24, 2023
My toddler son and I really enjoyed reading this together. I loved the snowy dotted drawings (pointillism?). I was a bit surprised by the number of words in this picture book and it was also quite long, but it was still a quick read. I really liked the relationship between Phoebe and Herb and I liked the Snow Dragon's messages of gratitude, wonder, love, and hope. Griselda Bone was a melodramatic villainess (very Agatha Trunchbull). I liked the ending with a new family, thanks to Snowdon Dragonis. A lovely little read.
December 28, 2020
Such an enchanting adventure involving an orphan, dog and a snow dragon. Escaping the orphanage walls Phoebe explores the village and scenery down below whilst riding on the back of the dragon. Beautifully written story and detailed illustrations which capture the mystery, emotion and hope within the story.
April 6, 2021
A very touching story about an orphan girl. Very sad to start with and can be quite distressed for some kids. The adventure part was really magical, and also highlights the miracles of seeing and feeling more of nature. The artwork is just amazing. All up, a very good story for young kids to learn the #1 thing they take for granted: having a mum and a dad.
November 29, 2022
Beautifully illustrated children’s picture book to read aloud and let you get drawn in the magical adventure. Some lovely phrases within the text to chat about. I love Herb, the dancing sausage dog and he’s always in colour. I would suggest to be representative of Phoebe’s constant friend. The imagery of the snow dragon is lovely, and I love the idea of his feathery voice. Predictable ending.
December 27, 2019
Such a beautiful book! It is full of magic and is the perfect read for this time of year. The story, combined with the illustrations, just transports you right into Phoebe's world and away on a wonderful adventure.
January 23, 2021
Beautiful book to share with primary school children at Christmas.
You can read my full review here:
http://vsviewfromthebookshelves.home....
You can read my full review here:
http://vsviewfromthebookshelves.home....
January 14, 2023
It was lovely story but it put me off that the author spoon fed the reader the messages it wanted to send. But the messages are important, so I'm sure the more I think about the story, the more it will grow on me.
November 5, 2019
Lovely magical story
Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews