36 pages 1 hour read

Elmer and the Dragon

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 1950

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Character Analysis

Elmer

Elmer is the protagonist of Elmer and the Dragon. He is a flat character with the same charming and helpful personality traits throughout the story. Elmer is a nine-year-old boy and resident of the fictional land of Popsicornia, where he lives in a town called Nevergreen City with his mother and father. In the novel’s illustrations, Elmer is depicted wearing shorts, a stripy t-shirt, a sailor’s cap, and big rubber boots.


Elmer is a curious and adventurous boy whose great dream in life is to fly, which prompts his adventure to the Wild Island to rescue the baby dragon. Whenever he arrives in a new place, Elmer takes joy in exploring and discovering its creatures and landscapes. For instance, when he arrives on Tangerina Island, he begins collecting and eating the tangerines, and on Feather Island he explores the abandoned human settlement. Elmer’s instinct to explore and put clues together helps him find resources and make the most of his journey.


Elmer is also portrayed as a friendly and caring person who has great empathy for others. Elmer’s ability to talk to animals helps him communicate with all kinds of creatures, from the alley cat near his home to a strange seagull and the canaries on Feather Island.

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