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Nickerbacher: The Funniest Dragon
Everyone knows that a dragon’s duty is to fiercely guard the princess, right? Well, meet Nickerbacher, a witty young dragon who would rather slay with laughter than with fire. Humorous guardian of the beautiful Princess Gwendolyn (for whom he performs daily comedic routines!), Nickerbacher aspires in his heart to become a stand-up comedian in the big city. There’s just one Papa Dragon is staunchly opposed to the idea, insisting that dragons are “not supposed to make people laugh,” dragons are “supposed to scare them.” What to do when your dreams go against the expectations of family or society? How do you follow what you know in your heart to be true when others don’t see it? Find out as Nickerbacher flies off to the big city to follow his dream—and nearly brings down the house in his first on-stage performance! Beautifully illustrated and cleverly written, The Funniest Dragon provides one chuckle after another while delivering a powerful message to The way to happiness is to follow your dreams, and the courage shown in doing so may sometimes melt even the strongest opposition.
34 pages, Paperback
First published December 7, 2017
4 people are currently reading
14 people want to read
About the author
Terry John Barto
3 books32 followersTerry John Barto is a director and choreographer of 200+ regional theater productions, industrials, television, and cruise ship shows throughout the United States and abroad. As creative director for Wings of Dreams Productions, he honed diverse ideas into compelling stories, wrote screenplays for animation features, and inspired a team of artists to develop dolls and action figures.
He lives in Los Angeles, California and enjoys Pilates, Yoga, and hiking with his dachshunds, Hunter and Mazie. Terry John Barto is also the author of Gollywood, Here I Come! For more information, please go to gollywoodland.com
He lives in Los Angeles, California and enjoys Pilates, Yoga, and hiking with his dachshunds, Hunter and Mazie. Terry John Barto is also the author of Gollywood, Here I Come! For more information, please go to gollywoodland.com
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
January 6, 2017
Have you ever heard of a dragon whose lifelong dream is to become a comedian? This idea is the unique storyline of the book Nickerbacher, by Terry John Barto.
Nickerbacher is a starry-eyed dragon whose primary job is to stand guard for Princess Gwendolyn in a tall tower. This position is not his dream. Instead, he has a simple dream of becoming the first dragon comedian, a dream that seems almost impossible to reach. Achieving his dream is complicated because his father is completely opposed to Nickerbacher becoming a comedian; he believes that dragons are not supposed to make people laugh.
When a prince arrives, thinking he needs to rescue Gwendolyn, the result is that the strong-willed princess and the dragon join together to stop his efforts. They devise a plan to get all three of them to La La Land, where Nickerbacher can audition to be a comedian on the Late Knight Show. Will they make it there successfully? Will Nickerbacher become the first dragon comedian? Will he prove to his father and the rest of the world that dragons really CAN make people laugh?
Opinion:
Nickerbacher is a funny book that is also very inspiring because it proves that as long as you believe in yourself, you can do things that seem impossible. It emphasizes the values of perseverance and confidence in a way that young children can understand.
Although Nickerbacher is more of a chapter book than a picture book, the illustrations are vivid and very detailed. I loved how the characters were described in a way that painted a picture in my head. The funny ways they interacted with each other kept me engrossed in their story.
I would recommend this book for children ages 5-9. Beginning chapter book readers who love fantasy will certainly enjoy Nickerbacher, and it would make a great read-aloud book for younger children.
Reviewed by a LitPick student book reviewer Age: 12
Nickerbacher is a starry-eyed dragon whose primary job is to stand guard for Princess Gwendolyn in a tall tower. This position is not his dream. Instead, he has a simple dream of becoming the first dragon comedian, a dream that seems almost impossible to reach. Achieving his dream is complicated because his father is completely opposed to Nickerbacher becoming a comedian; he believes that dragons are not supposed to make people laugh.
When a prince arrives, thinking he needs to rescue Gwendolyn, the result is that the strong-willed princess and the dragon join together to stop his efforts. They devise a plan to get all three of them to La La Land, where Nickerbacher can audition to be a comedian on the Late Knight Show. Will they make it there successfully? Will Nickerbacher become the first dragon comedian? Will he prove to his father and the rest of the world that dragons really CAN make people laugh?
Opinion:
Nickerbacher is a funny book that is also very inspiring because it proves that as long as you believe in yourself, you can do things that seem impossible. It emphasizes the values of perseverance and confidence in a way that young children can understand.
Although Nickerbacher is more of a chapter book than a picture book, the illustrations are vivid and very detailed. I loved how the characters were described in a way that painted a picture in my head. The funny ways they interacted with each other kept me engrossed in their story.
I would recommend this book for children ages 5-9. Beginning chapter book readers who love fantasy will certainly enjoy Nickerbacher, and it would make a great read-aloud book for younger children.
Reviewed by a LitPick student book reviewer Age: 12
May 8, 2017
Nickerbacher is a book for children, written by Terry John Barto and illustrated by Kim Sponaugle.
This story starts as a regular fairy tale, a princess waiting to be rescued guarded by a huge dragon, a knight in shiny armor, fire, swords… but the author manages to turn it into a very special adventure.
Nickerbacher is a dragon who’s supposed to jealously keep Gwendolyn, a fair princess, locked in a castle but his big dream is to become a comedian in La La Land, where dragons are not allowed between people, so he holds an important crusade fighting for the equal rights of dragons.
“Nickerbacher wailed. “You’re a dragon. You’re not supposed to make people laugh,” Papa growled.”
This book is brilliant. It might be for children but I deeply recommend it to all adults. It’s fresh, quick, catching and funny. Very funny. I laughed many times reading it, and this is a huge merit of the author because in my opinion, making people laugh is the most difficult thing in this world.
“Boom. You’ve all been dragooned”
Not to mention the relevant message Barto is teaching us. I love and appreciate how the author changes the tone of the story, from a bunch of harsh truths, “Son, it’s important to understand that not everybody is like you,” Papa Dragon said. “If you give humans a chance, they’ll hurt you. That’s what humans do.” to showing how to step in when it’s necessary to do the right thing. Thank you for that.
Characters are transparent and the author doesn’t drown the reader in descriptions, what makes everything agile and energetic.
The writing is simple, direct, clean. The illustrations are very beautiful and abundant. This piece is just, different and surprising, you don’t expect what you find in the book. You turn the first page looking for kid’s material and you find yourself laughing and enjoying every word. This book makes your day.
I honestly recommend it to EVERYONE, not only to the little ones. There are few things in life which brighten your day, this is one of them. Lots of congratulations to the author.
This story starts as a regular fairy tale, a princess waiting to be rescued guarded by a huge dragon, a knight in shiny armor, fire, swords… but the author manages to turn it into a very special adventure.
Nickerbacher is a dragon who’s supposed to jealously keep Gwendolyn, a fair princess, locked in a castle but his big dream is to become a comedian in La La Land, where dragons are not allowed between people, so he holds an important crusade fighting for the equal rights of dragons.
“Nickerbacher wailed. “You’re a dragon. You’re not supposed to make people laugh,” Papa growled.”
This book is brilliant. It might be for children but I deeply recommend it to all adults. It’s fresh, quick, catching and funny. Very funny. I laughed many times reading it, and this is a huge merit of the author because in my opinion, making people laugh is the most difficult thing in this world.
“Boom. You’ve all been dragooned”
Not to mention the relevant message Barto is teaching us. I love and appreciate how the author changes the tone of the story, from a bunch of harsh truths, “Son, it’s important to understand that not everybody is like you,” Papa Dragon said. “If you give humans a chance, they’ll hurt you. That’s what humans do.” to showing how to step in when it’s necessary to do the right thing. Thank you for that.
Characters are transparent and the author doesn’t drown the reader in descriptions, what makes everything agile and energetic.
The writing is simple, direct, clean. The illustrations are very beautiful and abundant. This piece is just, different and surprising, you don’t expect what you find in the book. You turn the first page looking for kid’s material and you find yourself laughing and enjoying every word. This book makes your day.
I honestly recommend it to EVERYONE, not only to the little ones. There are few things in life which brighten your day, this is one of them. Lots of congratulations to the author.
February 3, 2018
Reviewed by Paola (age 10) For Reader Views (2/18)
“Nickerbacher” by Terry John Barto is the story of a dragon whose job was to protect the life of the princess, like every dragon. But Nickerbacher was different than all the other dragons around. He was very friendly and nice, and close to Princess Gwendolyn. They both loved to watch the late-night show, and Nickerbacher had a dream to be a comedian. One day he heard that auditions were available and he just had to apply for it. Nickerbacher was really excited and really hoped to do it. His dad was not happy with the idea of him being a different dragon, he wanted Nickerbacher to be scary and mean to humans.
After many attempts of Prince’s coming to the tower to rescue Princess Gwendolyn, this time Prince Happenstance showed up and helped Nickerbacher start his journey. Join Nickerbacher the dragon, Princess Gwendolyn, and Prince Happenstance on the adventures in La La Land! Will Nickerbacher’s dream come true?
People think that dragons aren’t funny and Nickerbacher wants to prove to his dad and the world that dragons can get along with humans and be funny. I liked that he worked hard with the help of the prince and princess and prepared himself for the challenge.
I love the message of how we could all get along, accepting each other, and that we must work on our dreams and try to reach them.
“Nickerbacher” by Terry John Barto is a great story for all kids to believe in ourselves and work for what we love. I also love the illustrations.
A note from mom:
“Nickerbacher” provides an excellent lesson in life. I loved how he shows that being unique and different is ok. Hopefully kids will learn to follow their dreams, and live happily ever after when their dreams come true.
“Nickerbacher” by Terry John Barto is the story of a dragon whose job was to protect the life of the princess, like every dragon. But Nickerbacher was different than all the other dragons around. He was very friendly and nice, and close to Princess Gwendolyn. They both loved to watch the late-night show, and Nickerbacher had a dream to be a comedian. One day he heard that auditions were available and he just had to apply for it. Nickerbacher was really excited and really hoped to do it. His dad was not happy with the idea of him being a different dragon, he wanted Nickerbacher to be scary and mean to humans.
After many attempts of Prince’s coming to the tower to rescue Princess Gwendolyn, this time Prince Happenstance showed up and helped Nickerbacher start his journey. Join Nickerbacher the dragon, Princess Gwendolyn, and Prince Happenstance on the adventures in La La Land! Will Nickerbacher’s dream come true?
People think that dragons aren’t funny and Nickerbacher wants to prove to his dad and the world that dragons can get along with humans and be funny. I liked that he worked hard with the help of the prince and princess and prepared himself for the challenge.
I love the message of how we could all get along, accepting each other, and that we must work on our dreams and try to reach them.
“Nickerbacher” by Terry John Barto is a great story for all kids to believe in ourselves and work for what we love. I also love the illustrations.
A note from mom:
“Nickerbacher” provides an excellent lesson in life. I loved how he shows that being unique and different is ok. Hopefully kids will learn to follow their dreams, and live happily ever after when their dreams come true.
June 18, 2017
This book was entered in th 2016 Wishing Shelf Book Awards. This is what our readers thought:
Title: Nickerbacher
Author: Terry John Barto
Star Rating: 5 Stars
Number of Readers: 25
Stats
Editing: 10/10
Writing Style: 10/10
Content: 10/10
Cover: 10/10
Of the 25 readers:
25 would read another book by this author.
24 thought the cover was good or excellent.
3 (all teachers) felt the language was age-appropriate.
25 thought the pacing was excellent.
25 thought the author understood what a child enjoys reading.
Readers’ Comments
‘The pic on the cover is sweet. I wantd to read it when I sa the cover. I’m glad I did. It was really good..’ Girl, aged 7
‘This book is a fantastic way of introducing sterotyping. Well-written and often rather funny, the children in my class enjoyed it very much.’ Primary teacher, aged 41
‘A wonderful story for children who have big dreams. The writing is age-appropriate for 8, 9 and 10 year olds. There’s plenty happening and lots of pace. Fun ending too.’ Primary teacher, aged 65
‘I liked that Nickerbacher was different. He wasn’t just a typical dragon who roars and stuff. Though he can do that too. He’s funny. And sweet. And his dream is to be a comic. I loved it.’ Boy, aged 11
‘Interesting characters and a well-thought out plot. Beginning grabs and the reader, and the ending is fun. Excellent job!’ Male reader, editor, aged 42
‘Amazingly fun and fantastical! A GOLD MEDAL WINNER and highly recommended.’ The Wishing Shelf Book Awards
Title: Nickerbacher
Author: Terry John Barto
Star Rating: 5 Stars
Number of Readers: 25
Stats
Editing: 10/10
Writing Style: 10/10
Content: 10/10
Cover: 10/10
Of the 25 readers:
25 would read another book by this author.
24 thought the cover was good or excellent.
3 (all teachers) felt the language was age-appropriate.
25 thought the pacing was excellent.
25 thought the author understood what a child enjoys reading.
Readers’ Comments
‘The pic on the cover is sweet. I wantd to read it when I sa the cover. I’m glad I did. It was really good..’ Girl, aged 7
‘This book is a fantastic way of introducing sterotyping. Well-written and often rather funny, the children in my class enjoyed it very much.’ Primary teacher, aged 41
‘A wonderful story for children who have big dreams. The writing is age-appropriate for 8, 9 and 10 year olds. There’s plenty happening and lots of pace. Fun ending too.’ Primary teacher, aged 65
‘I liked that Nickerbacher was different. He wasn’t just a typical dragon who roars and stuff. Though he can do that too. He’s funny. And sweet. And his dream is to be a comic. I loved it.’ Boy, aged 11
‘Interesting characters and a well-thought out plot. Beginning grabs and the reader, and the ending is fun. Excellent job!’ Male reader, editor, aged 42
‘Amazingly fun and fantastical! A GOLD MEDAL WINNER and highly recommended.’ The Wishing Shelf Book Awards
January 17, 2017
Nickerbacher is back!! This time it’s as a middle grade chapter book, with Nickerbacher’s antics and dreams as viable as ever. His jokes are still funny and timeless. He wants so badly to follow his dream of being a stand-up comedian instead of guarding the Princess Gwendolyn. Gwendolyn, though, is a true friend and encourages him to stand up for his dreams against his father’s commands and Prince Fancypants ~ oops, Prince Happenstance ~ wanting to fight him for Gwendolyn’s hand. How will Nickerbacher ever get to La La Land and be on the Late Knight Show?
This lively book, with its story that dances a sprightly pace, will encourage middle grade children to read more, learning not only new vocabulary, but also to delight in the activity of reading itself. The illustrations in this chapter book are in black and white, so that young owners of the book can color the pages for themselves. (See Nickerbacher The Funniest Dragon picture book for full color illustrations). A great class activity would be for teachers to have students use Nickerbacher as a model for writing and illustrating their own books to be “published” within the school or even in creating their own classroom press to self-publish on-line. It’s never too early to become a published author. Highly recommended for ages 7-11.
This lively book, with its story that dances a sprightly pace, will encourage middle grade children to read more, learning not only new vocabulary, but also to delight in the activity of reading itself. The illustrations in this chapter book are in black and white, so that young owners of the book can color the pages for themselves. (See Nickerbacher The Funniest Dragon picture book for full color illustrations). A great class activity would be for teachers to have students use Nickerbacher as a model for writing and illustrating their own books to be “published” within the school or even in creating their own classroom press to self-publish on-line. It’s never too early to become a published author. Highly recommended for ages 7-11.
May 24, 2017
Nickerbacher is a fire-breathing dragon. It's his job to guard the princess just as his father did, and his father's father before that. But in truth Nickerbacher doesn't wish to be a scary dragon. What he wants more than anything is to be a comedian. So when he learns the Late Knight Show is accepting auditions he longs to give it a shot. Sadly, he knows his father would be dissapointed with him if he chose not to continue in the path of his forefathers. Thanks to his friend, Princess Gwendolyn, and his new coach he learns that above all, he must be true to himself.
Author Terry Johnn Barto's Nickerbacher is a whimsical tale that will entertain while instilling a message of empowerment and individuality. Excellent for young readers as well as for read-aloud, this book is sure to be a favorite with youngsters. Recommended for home and school libraries, Nickerbacher has earned the Literary Classics Seal of Approval.
Author Terry Johnn Barto's Nickerbacher is a whimsical tale that will entertain while instilling a message of empowerment and individuality. Excellent for young readers as well as for read-aloud, this book is sure to be a favorite with youngsters. Recommended for home and school libraries, Nickerbacher has earned the Literary Classics Seal of Approval.
June 9, 2017
This great and delightful story for children (Well, i am not a child and enjoyed the story tremendously) starts of as a regular fairy tale, with a princess, a prince and a dragon.
But it does not stop there.
The dragon Nickerbacher is different from all the other dragons. He does not like to scare and kill people, as dragons should be. He was the friend of the princess. To come closer to people, he wants to be a comedian, and for doing that, he with the princess and the prince journey to La La land.
His father is angry and does not understand his son's wish.
And what will happen in La La land?
I won't spoil it, find out how the dragon Nickerbacher is getting to know humans and humans are getting to know dragons.
The unknown is broken. They can live together.
The moral of the story: Don't be afraid of the unknown.
The solution: Just get to know each other.
The pictures between the words are great.
Highly recommend the book
But it does not stop there.
The dragon Nickerbacher is different from all the other dragons. He does not like to scare and kill people, as dragons should be. He was the friend of the princess. To come closer to people, he wants to be a comedian, and for doing that, he with the princess and the prince journey to La La land.
His father is angry and does not understand his son's wish.
And what will happen in La La land?
I won't spoil it, find out how the dragon Nickerbacher is getting to know humans and humans are getting to know dragons.
The unknown is broken. They can live together.
The moral of the story: Don't be afraid of the unknown.
The solution: Just get to know each other.
The pictures between the words are great.
Highly recommend the book
March 14, 2017
I received this book from the author Terry John Barto, as I had read the picture book about Nickerbacher the Dragon and loved it so much! The author wanted me to see this book which had been expanded into an early chapter edition. The book was so cute, I loved all of the fabulously funny drawings on every page, no color this time! I could see the reader if a kid owned the book coloring the pictures and making the book their own. Coloring for a past time is so in right now!!
Nichbacher has a job, to guard the princess Gwendolyn. He doesn't like his job, and wants to pursue becoming the first stand up comedian dragon! He and Gwendolyn are friends and she said she would help him, they came upon others who had never heard of dragons doing stand up, but they were supportive. Nichbacher's Father was not supportive, he didn't want his son to do anything but his assigned job!! Dragon's don't do comedy! They blow out flames and protect princesses!
Nichbacher had a try several times but he finally gets his chance to star on The Knight Show. The book is not only charming for children. There are so many things in the book that are a play on words which the children may not pick up on but the adults absolutely will. The book is a fun read for children and adults alike! I love the book and am going to be sending it to the library I support with books that I review. Mom is a volunteer librarian and they have story time at their library in Linden Iowa. The kids will love it I'm sure!
When you get a chance if you have children who read, pick this book up, you won't be disappointed!
Here is the description as found on Good Reads: Nickerbacher is a dragon and aspiring comedian who travels to La La Land to audition for The Late Knight Show. Hoping to prove to his father - and the world - that dragons can be funny. Nickerbacher befriends a prince and a princess who help him realize his dream while paving the way for equal rights of all citizens.
Nichbacher has a job, to guard the princess Gwendolyn. He doesn't like his job, and wants to pursue becoming the first stand up comedian dragon! He and Gwendolyn are friends and she said she would help him, they came upon others who had never heard of dragons doing stand up, but they were supportive. Nichbacher's Father was not supportive, he didn't want his son to do anything but his assigned job!! Dragon's don't do comedy! They blow out flames and protect princesses!
Nichbacher had a try several times but he finally gets his chance to star on The Knight Show. The book is not only charming for children. There are so many things in the book that are a play on words which the children may not pick up on but the adults absolutely will. The book is a fun read for children and adults alike! I love the book and am going to be sending it to the library I support with books that I review. Mom is a volunteer librarian and they have story time at their library in Linden Iowa. The kids will love it I'm sure!
When you get a chance if you have children who read, pick this book up, you won't be disappointed!
Here is the description as found on Good Reads: Nickerbacher is a dragon and aspiring comedian who travels to La La Land to audition for The Late Knight Show. Hoping to prove to his father - and the world - that dragons can be funny. Nickerbacher befriends a prince and a princess who help him realize his dream while paving the way for equal rights of all citizens.
April 2, 2018
Delightful Dragon
Nickerbacher breaks the stereotype of what a dragon should choose as a career. The author did a great job of using traditional characters (such as a dragon, a princess, and a prince) to engage young audiences. The story also captures situations that parents and kids struggle with, which is something that’s not written in children’s books.
Nickerbacher breaks the stereotype of what a dragon should choose as a career. The author did a great job of using traditional characters (such as a dragon, a princess, and a prince) to engage young audiences. The story also captures situations that parents and kids struggle with, which is something that’s not written in children’s books.
February 2, 2019
Kat Mandu says...
Today, it’s my first review of a kid’s book! This is an exciting and short read that a lot of children will love!
Nickerbacher is a dragon who guards a feisty young princess and defends her from princes who try to rescue her. But despite his father’s wishes, Nickerbacher would rather perform stand-up comedy rather than guard a princess.
So one day, he gets the opportunity to do just that. Nickerbacher, the Princess, and an unlucky prince go on an adventure in hopes of getting an audition for The Late Knight Show. But of course, dragons are perceived to be dangerous and at first, they don’t think giving him an audition is necessarily a good idea. Still, Nickerbacher knows he’s got talent (if he can get a new set of jokes) and on the big night, he slays the audience with his real, humorous self.
This is cute and I love the illustrations. And sadly, I know it’s a kid’s book but I was still hoping the story would be a little bit longer and that his jokes at the end would be more than just two pages. But it got a few giggles out of me for sure.
Today, it’s my first review of a kid’s book! This is an exciting and short read that a lot of children will love!
Nickerbacher is a dragon who guards a feisty young princess and defends her from princes who try to rescue her. But despite his father’s wishes, Nickerbacher would rather perform stand-up comedy rather than guard a princess.
So one day, he gets the opportunity to do just that. Nickerbacher, the Princess, and an unlucky prince go on an adventure in hopes of getting an audition for The Late Knight Show. But of course, dragons are perceived to be dangerous and at first, they don’t think giving him an audition is necessarily a good idea. Still, Nickerbacher knows he’s got talent (if he can get a new set of jokes) and on the big night, he slays the audience with his real, humorous self.
This is cute and I love the illustrations. And sadly, I know it’s a kid’s book but I was still hoping the story would be a little bit longer and that his jokes at the end would be more than just two pages. But it got a few giggles out of me for sure.
March 2, 2017
Description: Nickerbacher is a dragon that dreams of going to La La Land to become a comedian, but a dragon has never been a comedian before! He is expected to do dragonly things and stay with Princess Gwendolyn guarding her in her tower from any silly Princes that might come and try to save her. Even though princess Gwendolyn doesn't like La La Land or what it stands for, she puts aside those feelings to devise a plan to get her dear friend Nickerbacher there so he can live out his dream of auditioning for The Late Knight Show.
In Short: This is a great book for kids that is both entertaining and full of positive messages. It teaches the value of friendship, and using hard work to accomplish your dreams, no matter how impossible they may seem. It also battles discrimination and negative stereotypes. The heroes have to overcome many obstacles and others telling them that "dragons can't be comedians" before they can reach their goal and get Nickerbacher on stage at The Late Knight Show.
Pros: This book appeals to both adults and children with modern cultural references woven into a fairy tale featuring a Dragon and a Princess. Adults will catch a lot of the parodies and satires hidden in the story that may go over kids heads but there is plenty of humor for the kids too. The story is easy to follow and fun. There is even a surprising amount of character development. Prince Happenstance really comes around and changes his outlook by the middle of the book, becoming a great ally to his former enemy. I loved the part where Nickerbacher had his first audition with Johnny Kingston. During this audition he wasn't at all funny, but his friends managed to convince Johnny to give him another chance and instead of being upset about how it went Nickerbacher gets a coach to help him improve his act for next time. In the end he proved anyone can be anything they want.
Cons: I do like the art, but something about the size and rough edges of the black and white drawings could make it a little hard for children see clearly. I wish Nickerbacher's final show had been longer, maybe 1 or 2 more jokes. For me, it just warmed up and then was over.
In Short: This is a great book for kids that is both entertaining and full of positive messages. It teaches the value of friendship, and using hard work to accomplish your dreams, no matter how impossible they may seem. It also battles discrimination and negative stereotypes. The heroes have to overcome many obstacles and others telling them that "dragons can't be comedians" before they can reach their goal and get Nickerbacher on stage at The Late Knight Show.
Pros: This book appeals to both adults and children with modern cultural references woven into a fairy tale featuring a Dragon and a Princess. Adults will catch a lot of the parodies and satires hidden in the story that may go over kids heads but there is plenty of humor for the kids too. The story is easy to follow and fun. There is even a surprising amount of character development. Prince Happenstance really comes around and changes his outlook by the middle of the book, becoming a great ally to his former enemy. I loved the part where Nickerbacher had his first audition with Johnny Kingston. During this audition he wasn't at all funny, but his friends managed to convince Johnny to give him another chance and instead of being upset about how it went Nickerbacher gets a coach to help him improve his act for next time. In the end he proved anyone can be anything they want.
Cons: I do like the art, but something about the size and rough edges of the black and white drawings could make it a little hard for children see clearly. I wish Nickerbacher's final show had been longer, maybe 1 or 2 more jokes. For me, it just warmed up and then was over.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 10, 2017
You will never look at Dragons the same again!
This is a simply wonderful story about a dragon called Nickerbacher, whose job is to guard the Princess Gwendolyn who lives in a tall, tall tower. However the princess and Nickerbacher are friends and their favorite thing is staying up watching the live performances on The Late Knight Show every evening.
Soon we discover that Nickerbacher isn’t your ordinary dragon, oh he knows his job is to guard the princess, fight the knights who try to rescue her and generally be a big bad dragon, but that’s not what he wants to do the rest of his life – he has a dream. Nickerbacher wants to become a stand-up comedian! He hates the stereotyping of dragons and wants to show the world a different side, a caring, funny dragon, so dragons can be acceptable members of the community, not third rate citizens.
So, when Prince Happenstance arrives, fresh from the Prince Guild, with a mission to rescue the princess, he soon discovers that Gwendolyn is no ordinary princess, and Nickerbacher no ordinary dragon. Before he knows it he finds himself agreeing to take part in a plan cooked up between them to get Nickerbacher to La La Land so he can audition for The Late Knight Show, and make his impact on the world!
La La Land they discover is quite amazing, full of many sorts of wonderful creatures, all living with the humans, but there are no dragons, so Nicerbacher arrival causes quite a stir, and everyone wants to know why he is there.
However being there is only the beginning, can he get an audition with Johnny Kingston, and if he does, how will it go?
Find out if Nickerbacher’s dreams come true, will he star on The Late Knight Show?
Can he wow the audience with his jokes, and change their perception of dragons?
Discover the answer to these questions, and much more in this exciting children’s story full of magic and surprises, written by Terry John Barto, and beautifully illustrated by Kim Sponaugle.
This is a simply wonderful story about a dragon called Nickerbacher, whose job is to guard the Princess Gwendolyn who lives in a tall, tall tower. However the princess and Nickerbacher are friends and their favorite thing is staying up watching the live performances on The Late Knight Show every evening.
Soon we discover that Nickerbacher isn’t your ordinary dragon, oh he knows his job is to guard the princess, fight the knights who try to rescue her and generally be a big bad dragon, but that’s not what he wants to do the rest of his life – he has a dream. Nickerbacher wants to become a stand-up comedian! He hates the stereotyping of dragons and wants to show the world a different side, a caring, funny dragon, so dragons can be acceptable members of the community, not third rate citizens.
So, when Prince Happenstance arrives, fresh from the Prince Guild, with a mission to rescue the princess, he soon discovers that Gwendolyn is no ordinary princess, and Nickerbacher no ordinary dragon. Before he knows it he finds himself agreeing to take part in a plan cooked up between them to get Nickerbacher to La La Land so he can audition for The Late Knight Show, and make his impact on the world!
La La Land they discover is quite amazing, full of many sorts of wonderful creatures, all living with the humans, but there are no dragons, so Nicerbacher arrival causes quite a stir, and everyone wants to know why he is there.
However being there is only the beginning, can he get an audition with Johnny Kingston, and if he does, how will it go?
Find out if Nickerbacher’s dreams come true, will he star on The Late Knight Show?
Can he wow the audience with his jokes, and change their perception of dragons?
Discover the answer to these questions, and much more in this exciting children’s story full of magic and surprises, written by Terry John Barto, and beautifully illustrated by Kim Sponaugle.
February 7, 2017
I won a copy of this book in a Goodreads giveaway, and I have to say that I really enjoyed it. It reminds me of the first Shrek movie but is still its own original story featuring a spin on the classic fire breathing, princess-protecting dragon tale.
I love the themes of diversity and going against the grain to become something other than what you're expected to be. There is a "follow your dream" message throughout that doesn't cram the idea down your throat. I also love the dynamic of the three main characters: Nickerbacher, the princess, and the prince forming an unlikely and semi-dysfunctional but entertaining trio. No one plays their classic part. The dragon is silly. The princess is tenacious. The prince is a coward. In the end, though, they all work together to help Nickerbacher realize his dream of becoming a famous stand-up comedian.
The illustrations are so well done. They are eye-catching and capture the characters' distinctive personalities and movements. There is also a lot of them, sometimes spreading over two full pages. A lot of care and detail are put into each one.
My only criticism is that the vocabulary may be a little sophisticated for a new reader. The jokes may also go over their head, but it would be a great choice for parents and children to read together.
I love the themes of diversity and going against the grain to become something other than what you're expected to be. There is a "follow your dream" message throughout that doesn't cram the idea down your throat. I also love the dynamic of the three main characters: Nickerbacher, the princess, and the prince forming an unlikely and semi-dysfunctional but entertaining trio. No one plays their classic part. The dragon is silly. The princess is tenacious. The prince is a coward. In the end, though, they all work together to help Nickerbacher realize his dream of becoming a famous stand-up comedian.
The illustrations are so well done. They are eye-catching and capture the characters' distinctive personalities and movements. There is also a lot of them, sometimes spreading over two full pages. A lot of care and detail are put into each one.
My only criticism is that the vocabulary may be a little sophisticated for a new reader. The jokes may also go over their head, but it would be a great choice for parents and children to read together.
May 28, 2017
I’ve ready many adaptions of Barto’s Nickerbacher. (BTW, I do not know him, he has reached out to me as a reviewer.) However, this version as an early chapter book is the best.
Nickerbacker is a dragon who doesn’t want breath fire, guard princesses or fight princes He wants to be a comedian. And there are upcoming auditions for The Late Knight in La La Land. Nickerbcker wants to go, and with Princess Gwendolyn’s encouragement, he agrees to talk to hi father one more time.
Papa believes his son is being grossly negligent, dragons were not made to be funny, but Nickerbacher has a dream. The next day Prince Happenstance, on behalf of the Princes Guild arrives to save Princess Gwendolyn. Since she doesn’t need saving, the prince agrees to chase them should they leave the Kingdome. The trio locks up the tower, and they take off on their grand adventure. As they learn about chasing dream, they also learn about each other.
The picture book, Nickerbacher the Funniest Dragon, was well done. However, as an early chapter book, it delves more deeply into the story.
An excellent read for children ages four to eight.
Nickerbacker receives 5 stars out of 5 in Julie’s world.
Nickerbacker is a dragon who doesn’t want breath fire, guard princesses or fight princes He wants to be a comedian. And there are upcoming auditions for The Late Knight in La La Land. Nickerbcker wants to go, and with Princess Gwendolyn’s encouragement, he agrees to talk to hi father one more time.
Papa believes his son is being grossly negligent, dragons were not made to be funny, but Nickerbacher has a dream. The next day Prince Happenstance, on behalf of the Princes Guild arrives to save Princess Gwendolyn. Since she doesn’t need saving, the prince agrees to chase them should they leave the Kingdome. The trio locks up the tower, and they take off on their grand adventure. As they learn about chasing dream, they also learn about each other.
The picture book, Nickerbacher the Funniest Dragon, was well done. However, as an early chapter book, it delves more deeply into the story.
An excellent read for children ages four to eight.
Nickerbacker receives 5 stars out of 5 in Julie’s world.
April 4, 2017
* I was given a copy of this book by the author in return for an honest review. The opinions are completely my own*
Hello, Nickerbacher! It's so good to see you again! When I read the first story of Nickerbacher, a picture book, I instantly fell in love with this colorful, silly dragon. What dragon would rather be in show business than protect a princess?! That said, I had so many questions! I wanted to know more about Nickerbacher and his journey to stardom.
Thankfully, all my questions were answered in this Early Chapter Edition. It was much more satisfying to get a richer, broader, deeper story. I love the relationship between Nickerbacher and his Princess Gwendolyn. She supports him in his dreams and he supports her strength and independence. Their adventure involves the hapless Prince Happenstance (Fancypants?) who initially tries to save Princess Gwendolyn from Nickerbacher, but decides to join them on the journey to La La Land.
Upon their arrival in La La Land, the story becomes rich with interesting and amusing characters - far too many to list. What the first book lacked in detail comes richly alive in this chapter book. In the end, the message is clear - surround yourself with supportive friends and reach for your dreams, even if they seem unlikely.
Nickerbacher will provide hilarious fun for kids beginning their reading journey. There may be some vocabulary beyond their reading level, which is always a good springboard for vocabulary expansion. The details will help children paint vivid pictures in their minds, but are also complemented by fantastic drawings. The illustrations are top-notch.
I would love to see this book added to many classroom libraries. Nickerbacher is charming, funny, heartfelt and satisfying!
Hello, Nickerbacher! It's so good to see you again! When I read the first story of Nickerbacher, a picture book, I instantly fell in love with this colorful, silly dragon. What dragon would rather be in show business than protect a princess?! That said, I had so many questions! I wanted to know more about Nickerbacher and his journey to stardom.
Thankfully, all my questions were answered in this Early Chapter Edition. It was much more satisfying to get a richer, broader, deeper story. I love the relationship between Nickerbacher and his Princess Gwendolyn. She supports him in his dreams and he supports her strength and independence. Their adventure involves the hapless Prince Happenstance (Fancypants?) who initially tries to save Princess Gwendolyn from Nickerbacher, but decides to join them on the journey to La La Land.
Upon their arrival in La La Land, the story becomes rich with interesting and amusing characters - far too many to list. What the first book lacked in detail comes richly alive in this chapter book. In the end, the message is clear - surround yourself with supportive friends and reach for your dreams, even if they seem unlikely.
Nickerbacher will provide hilarious fun for kids beginning their reading journey. There may be some vocabulary beyond their reading level, which is always a good springboard for vocabulary expansion. The details will help children paint vivid pictures in their minds, but are also complemented by fantastic drawings. The illustrations are top-notch.
I would love to see this book added to many classroom libraries. Nickerbacher is charming, funny, heartfelt and satisfying!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 5, 2017
It seems I'm still a kid at heart because Nickerbacher made my day!
It's a quirky, imaginative story encouraging young kids to pursue their passions and stay true to who they are, no matter the opposition. Children will love the illustrations and humour and even parents can appreciate the wonderful message presented.
If you're a teacher or have kids in the target age group, this would be a good choice for your next read.
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