1. By John Gardner

2. Setting The story takes place in a kingdom far away, but in modern times.  Cars  Alarm Clocks John Gardner  Loved tales of heroes and other old- fashioned stories.  Wrote Grendel, which retells the story of Beowolf  Adds twists to the familiar patters of fairy tales.

3. MAJOR  Dragon: Antagonist  Youngest Son: Protagonist  Cobbler MINOR  King  Wizard  Oldest son  Middle son

4. Plot Elements Dragon is destroying the kingdom. Exposition Rising Action Dragon is dead. Resolution Falling Action Youngest son kills the dragon. Problem: How to get rid of the dragon Dragon Moves roads Dragon knocks over fences. King calls a meeting Eldest son volunteers to slay dragon Middle son tries to slay dragon Youngest son prepares to slay dragon Brothers are saved Treasures are found Youngest son takes the dragon’s head to the king. Son gets ½ of kingdom Wizard gets his book back Queen is restored.

5. “Listen to your elders.” Time and again the father gave each son advice. Only the youngest son took that advice and he was the one that defeated the dragon.

6. TYPES OF CONFLICTEXAMPLES  Man vs. Man  Man vs. Self  Sons vs. Dragon  Youngest son isn’t sure if he is strong enough.  Not sure he should follow dad’s advice.

7. Say it very loud and firmly and the dragon will fall