Dragons Love Tacos

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Dragons Love Tacos by Adam Rubin, illustrated by Daniel Salmieri

Picture Book/Easy Reader

Evaluation of Book

Who knew that dragons loved tacos? Did you even know that dragons ate tacos? In the book Dragons Love Tacos by Adam Rubin we are introduced to the notion that dragons do love all sorts of tacos but they do not like spicy salsa.

The author combines dragons and tacos which is a silly combination that appeals to children of all ages. It’s written as though it’s for the reader and then the author switches and talks to the dragon. The language used in the story help to create an excitement that keeps the reader turning the page. This buildup keeps the reader guessing about why dragons even like tacos and what will happen if a dragon eats spicy salsa. It’s a great opportunity for the reader to make predictions about what will happen in the story.

Salmieri’s watercolor cartoon illustrations are delightful and assist in creating the lighthearted mood of the story. The dragons are colorful and come in all shapes and sizes. None of them are scary or frightening which is perfect for this children’s story.

Response

The combination of dragons and tacos is a unique one that is enjoyed by many. I love tacos and although I haven’t always been a fan of dragons, I did enjoy Puff the Magic Dragon as a child. As I read the story, I was reminded of another text by Laura Numeroff called If You Give a Mouse a Cookie. Giving human food to animals and the problems that it causes is a connection that both stories have in common. I have a toy poodle and a shih tzu poodle mix that love human food especially popcorn. Sometimes sharing food with them causes problems involving lots of cleaning and scrubbing similar to the fire damage done by the dragons.

Conclusion

Dragons Love Tacos is a perfect one to share in the classroom or the library. The lighthearted text and illustrations will be enjoyed by readers of all ages. This first book was so well received that Rubin and Salmieri have teamed up to write Dragons Love Tacos 2. I can’t wait to find that one on the shelf.

Citation

Rubin, A., & Salmieri, D. (2012). Dragons love tacos. New York: Dial Books for Young Readers.