Elmer and the Dragon

In the novel the storm functions as a symbol for challenges and obstacles, illustrating The Nature of Resilience and Adventure. Elmer and the baby dragon have just agreed on their goal of reaching his home of Popsicornia when they encounter the terrible storm, which forces them to crash land on the sandbar in the ocean. Gannett emphasizes the shocking and frightening nature of this challenge in her description of the storm and the characters’ reactions. She writes, “Suddenly, a ferocious wind rushed up from behind, pushing them forward faster and faster. Thunder crackled all around them, and cold hard rain beat down upon them […] ‘I can’t go on,’ puffed the dragon, and he sank through the rain nearer to the cold wild water’” (22). Elmer is also panicked by the storm, as it means he may never make it home: “Elmer shut his eyes and held on as hard as he could, trying not to cry or think about home” (22).

By taking the dragon and Elmer off track and preventing them from continuing their trip, the storm represents difficult obstacles that must be overcome. This challenge allows the author to showcase the characters’ resilience and positivity, showing how they comfort each other and work together to get through the storm. After they land in the ocean, the dragon puts on a brave face as he stands in the cold ocean water. He tells Elmer, “Elmer, we’re safe! I landed on sand! […] It’s not too bad!” (23).

Elmer also stays positive, and helps the dragon recover from his tough night, telling him, “And just as soon as the sun dries you off, you’ll be unstiff again. Here, have another lollipop” (28). The author’s descriptions of the storm and the characters’ reactions present it as a serious obstacle that could be the end of the friends’ adventure, while also highlighting their ability to work together and overcome unexpected challenges.