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Leo and the Lightning Dragons
Everybody in the kingdom is supporting the brave knight Leo in his battle against his fearsome dragons. They try lots of different things to help him defeat them but eventually Leo realises that the most important thing to do is to believe in himself. This beautifully illustrated book with a poignant and uplifting rhyming story encourages children to persevere and find strength in the face of adversity, even when it seems that nothing is working. Written by Gill White for her son Leo who suffers from Ohtahara Syndrome, an extremely rare form of epilepsy, and beautifully illustrated by Fife artist Gilli B, this story has been positively received by parents of children with complex needs, by care workers and medical staff and by parents of healthy young children who love the book simply as an adventure story. All royalties from the sale of this book will go to CHAS (Children's Hospices across Scotland).
36 pages, Paperback
Published January 30, 2019
6 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
February 12, 2019
5☆ Captured My heart
First of all I want to applaud Gill White for taking her gorgeous little boys Rare Ohtahara Syndrome and raising awareness in the form of a beautifully illustrated children's book.
I am a qualified nursery nurse and worked with children and families who have disabilities.
I absolutely adored the play on words, emotions, sounds and feelings to help get across exactly what it's like for Leo and his family.
I think it's so important to educate children (and adults) from an early age that people/ children are different and to be kind, supportive and to be a friend.
Leo is so strong, determined, extremely brave, loved by so many, his strength shone through and melted my heart.
Children will be able to relate to his character, he is entertaining, fun, a champion and most importantly a survivor.
I loved all the special little touches, for example the witches brew, the poison all representing the specialists and medicine. It's so cleverly written.
I would love to see this book in all schools as it is such a beautiful and important read It's very cleverly written, making it a great book for discussion and teaching children about disabilities etc..
This book certainly opened my eyes and educated me about this rare syndrome which I had never heard of before.
Leo and the Lighting Dragons is a beautifully illustrated children's Adventure book about a brave little knight and his battles with the dragons inside his head.
It's an utterly charming and thought provoking read that captured my heart.
It's a Compelling and Heartwarming read that once read will truly stay with you for a lifetime.
I highly recommend this adorable children's book and I want to thank Gill White for letting me into Leo's world. He truly is a little inspiration.
Thank you to Love Book Group Tours and
Fledgling Press for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
My Review is also on my Blog Website :-
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2019/0...
First of all I want to applaud Gill White for taking her gorgeous little boys Rare Ohtahara Syndrome and raising awareness in the form of a beautifully illustrated children's book.
I am a qualified nursery nurse and worked with children and families who have disabilities.
I absolutely adored the play on words, emotions, sounds and feelings to help get across exactly what it's like for Leo and his family.
I think it's so important to educate children (and adults) from an early age that people/ children are different and to be kind, supportive and to be a friend.
Leo is so strong, determined, extremely brave, loved by so many, his strength shone through and melted my heart.
Children will be able to relate to his character, he is entertaining, fun, a champion and most importantly a survivor.
I loved all the special little touches, for example the witches brew, the poison all representing the specialists and medicine. It's so cleverly written.
I would love to see this book in all schools as it is such a beautiful and important read It's very cleverly written, making it a great book for discussion and teaching children about disabilities etc..
This book certainly opened my eyes and educated me about this rare syndrome which I had never heard of before.
Leo and the Lighting Dragons is a beautifully illustrated children's Adventure book about a brave little knight and his battles with the dragons inside his head.
It's an utterly charming and thought provoking read that captured my heart.
It's a Compelling and Heartwarming read that once read will truly stay with you for a lifetime.
I highly recommend this adorable children's book and I want to thank Gill White for letting me into Leo's world. He truly is a little inspiration.
Thank you to Love Book Group Tours and
Fledgling Press for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
My Review is also on my Blog Website :-
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2019/0...
December 23, 2019
This Book Belongs to……..I loved how there is special place to write a child’s name. The front of the cover looks extremely exciting, with dragons on and every character that’s inside this story. I do have to say this is wonderful story about Leo who is the bravest knight of all . And what do knights fight? Dragons! that are strong and big and tall. The illustrations by Gilli B, are absolutely excellent and so enjoyable to look at. The book is quite a large soft paperback and will make a beautiful Christmas present or a book just quite simply as a learning treat. It would be fabulous if schools would stock this book.
My review on www.bookread2day.wordpress.com
Twitter@bookpage5
The author Gill White has won my heart writing this story for her son! Leo who has Ohtahara Syndrome and a rare form of epilepsy, Leo suffers from a large number of seizures every day. Despite numberous treatments, these seizures remain uncontrolled. Every day, her husband and Gill are amazed by Leo’s sheer determination and refusal to give up and the author Gill and her husband could not be more proud of their boy, the bravest Knight they have ever seen. All royalties from the sale of this book will go to CHAS Chidren’s Hospice Across Scotland.
This beautifully illustrated book with a poignant and uplifting rhyming story encourages children to persevere and find strength in the face of adversity, even when it seems that nothing is working.
Written by Gill White for her son Leo who suffers from Ohtahara Syndrome, an extremely rare form of epilepsy, and beautifully illustrated by Fife artist Gilli B, this story has been positively received by parents of children with complex needs, by care workers and medical staff and by parents of healthy young children who love the book simply as an adventure story.
All royalties from the sale of this book will go to CHAS (Children’s Hospices across Scotland).
My review on www.bookread2day.wordpress.com
Twitter@bookpage5
The author Gill White has won my heart writing this story for her son! Leo who has Ohtahara Syndrome and a rare form of epilepsy, Leo suffers from a large number of seizures every day. Despite numberous treatments, these seizures remain uncontrolled. Every day, her husband and Gill are amazed by Leo’s sheer determination and refusal to give up and the author Gill and her husband could not be more proud of their boy, the bravest Knight they have ever seen. All royalties from the sale of this book will go to CHAS Chidren’s Hospice Across Scotland.
This beautifully illustrated book with a poignant and uplifting rhyming story encourages children to persevere and find strength in the face of adversity, even when it seems that nothing is working.
Written by Gill White for her son Leo who suffers from Ohtahara Syndrome, an extremely rare form of epilepsy, and beautifully illustrated by Fife artist Gilli B, this story has been positively received by parents of children with complex needs, by care workers and medical staff and by parents of healthy young children who love the book simply as an adventure story.
All royalties from the sale of this book will go to CHAS (Children’s Hospices across Scotland).
November 2, 2019
https://donnasbookblog.wordpress.com/...
I think that this book is lovely, it is a great little story that has some fabulous images!
The book is easy to read and understand and I think it will really help children that suffer from unseen illnesses too. The story is great and I can easily see if being a firm favourite. I read it with my daughter and she loved the pictures, they are nice, bright and attractive to younger ones.
Four stars from me, highly recommended and I love that the book is raising monies for such a good cause too!
I think that this book is lovely, it is a great little story that has some fabulous images!
The book is easy to read and understand and I think it will really help children that suffer from unseen illnesses too. The story is great and I can easily see if being a firm favourite. I read it with my daughter and she loved the pictures, they are nice, bright and attractive to younger ones.
Four stars from me, highly recommended and I love that the book is raising monies for such a good cause too!
February 11, 2019
Leo and the Lightning Dragons is a lovely book. It was written about and for a real little boy named Leo who has a rare form of epilepsy. The story emphasises Leo's bravery in dealing with the dragons, i.e. lightning strikes in his head, and as an analogy it works very well. As an adult, it was easy for me to understand the message in the book but I would say that for my five year old it was a bit beyond his comprehension really, although he enjoyed the story on a surface level.
The illustrations are beautiful and vibrant and match the story perfectly. It really is the most visually attractive book.
You'll be pleased to know that Leo defeats the dragons at the end and so a child's desire for a happy ending is realised. And there are then some ideas for bringing Leo and the Lightning Dragons to life and making a sensory story, such as using plasma balls to show how the lightning dragons attack Leo or tapping your hands on a desk or your legs to depict the dragons fleeing.
I'm not sure what age group the book is aimed at but I think as my son gets older he will understand the nature of the analogy a lot better and in the meantime it's a great tale of the goody defeating the baddy! Delightful!
The illustrations are beautiful and vibrant and match the story perfectly. It really is the most visually attractive book.
You'll be pleased to know that Leo defeats the dragons at the end and so a child's desire for a happy ending is realised. And there are then some ideas for bringing Leo and the Lightning Dragons to life and making a sensory story, such as using plasma balls to show how the lightning dragons attack Leo or tapping your hands on a desk or your legs to depict the dragons fleeing.
I'm not sure what age group the book is aimed at but I think as my son gets older he will understand the nature of the analogy a lot better and in the meantime it's a great tale of the goody defeating the baddy! Delightful!
December 23, 2019
Leo and the Lightning Dragons is one of the best children's books I've read this year. It's sweet and heartwarming, and it makes one realize just how strong some children can really be in the face of debilitating disorders.
Leo, the little boy in the book, has a rare form of epilepsy. His seizures are comparable to dragons, and within the pages, Leo turns into a brave knight who does everything he can to fight off those awful dragons who hurt him.
I may have shed a few tears while reading this book, too. I can't even imagine having to go through something like that at such a young age. Little Leo is definitely a strong, brave, courageous kid.
The illustrations in the book are lovely, and they will bring a smile to your face.
I'd definitely recommend Leo and the Lightning Dragons to all parents. It's a really great read.
5 stars!
Leo, the little boy in the book, has a rare form of epilepsy. His seizures are comparable to dragons, and within the pages, Leo turns into a brave knight who does everything he can to fight off those awful dragons who hurt him.
I may have shed a few tears while reading this book, too. I can't even imagine having to go through something like that at such a young age. Little Leo is definitely a strong, brave, courageous kid.
The illustrations in the book are lovely, and they will bring a smile to your face.
I'd definitely recommend Leo and the Lightning Dragons to all parents. It's a really great read.
5 stars!
February 17, 2019
I am excited to welcome back my first #TangentsLittleReader, Lily. Lily was over the moon to be asked to read Leo and the Lightning Dragons and share her thoughts on the book with you all.
Lily settled down with her mummy, Kirsten, to read all about Leo’s adventures...
Lily thought the book cover and title made the story sound very interesting and that the illustrations showed a happy story. In fact, between you and me, I think a certain six-year-old was impatient to get started *snorts*
The rhyming aspect of the story appealed very much to Lily as it helped her to read it - Miss Independent here, lol.
Leo and his family were Lily’s favourite characters as they reminded her of her own family where there are cuddles aplenty. Lily is one lucky little girl just like Leo.
The illustrations in the book are exquisite and Lily loved the trees. She’s getting very ‘one with nature’ at the moment!
Lily told her mummy that she understood there are many types of dragons. Some you can see and some you can’t. You just have to believe in yourself and you can beat anything. Especially when you are loved - and Lily knows that for sure!
Her stand out moment was... well, I can’t tell you that without giving the story away, lol. All I will say is that having a family that loves you and is proud of your achievements, no matter what, is everything.
Drum roll please...
Lily gave this book a Fist of Five aka 5 HUGE 🌟
Thanks once again to Lily and her mummy for helping me out.
Kirsten wanted me to mention that she was especially touched by this story. She highly recommends this book to parents or guardians for their little ones as it contains a very special message.
I couldn’t put it better myself!
Lily settled down with her mummy, Kirsten, to read all about Leo’s adventures...
Lily thought the book cover and title made the story sound very interesting and that the illustrations showed a happy story. In fact, between you and me, I think a certain six-year-old was impatient to get started *snorts*
The rhyming aspect of the story appealed very much to Lily as it helped her to read it - Miss Independent here, lol.
Leo and his family were Lily’s favourite characters as they reminded her of her own family where there are cuddles aplenty. Lily is one lucky little girl just like Leo.
The illustrations in the book are exquisite and Lily loved the trees. She’s getting very ‘one with nature’ at the moment!
Lily told her mummy that she understood there are many types of dragons. Some you can see and some you can’t. You just have to believe in yourself and you can beat anything. Especially when you are loved - and Lily knows that for sure!
Her stand out moment was... well, I can’t tell you that without giving the story away, lol. All I will say is that having a family that loves you and is proud of your achievements, no matter what, is everything.
Drum roll please...
Lily gave this book a Fist of Five aka 5 HUGE 🌟
Thanks once again to Lily and her mummy for helping me out.
Kirsten wanted me to mention that she was especially touched by this story. She highly recommends this book to parents or guardians for their little ones as it contains a very special message.
I couldn’t put it better myself!
February 10, 2019
Leo and the Lightning Dragons is an absolutely magical little rhyming story book which is so beautifully illustrated, with an extremely eye-catching cover.
Leo is fighting dragons, but not the kind you might be thinking of. Leo's dragons are “disguised as lightning crackling inside his head”. Many people try to help Leo to beat the dragons, but ultimately he defeats them himself out of sheer determination and by never giving up!
A very inspirational story with a lesson for us all.
I have no doubt it will be enjoyed by all, young or old!
Leo will stay in my thoughts for a very long time to come.
Blog tour post - 12th February 2019 - chataboutbooks.wordpress.com
Leo is fighting dragons, but not the kind you might be thinking of. Leo's dragons are “disguised as lightning crackling inside his head”. Many people try to help Leo to beat the dragons, but ultimately he defeats them himself out of sheer determination and by never giving up!
A very inspirational story with a lesson for us all.
I have no doubt it will be enjoyed by all, young or old!
Leo will stay in my thoughts for a very long time to come.
Blog tour post - 12th February 2019 - chataboutbooks.wordpress.com
February 15, 2019
Thank you to Love Books Group, the lovely Kelly, for letting me be part of this journey, and this blog tour.
I am new to the world of children books. I don’t have children, cousins, neighbours. Crime fiction offers me the gateways I need. Yet, I have started branching out. Other genres, non-fiction, indie authors… The power of books is limitless. And once in a while, you find a little gem. Something you thought you would never read. Sometimes important. A life lesson. It doesn’t have to be told through an intricate plot or academic and unpronounceable words. Sometimes a family share their story, and it makes all the difference.
Leo and The Lightning Dragons was written by a mother for her son. It is inspiring, it is sweet and full of hope and strength. It is beautiful. It is a cry for life and joy. It is a wonderfully-crafted weapon carved in love. Informative, clever, and brilliant, this children book is a testimony of resilience.
Thank you to Leo’s super-hero parents for fighting, thank you to Fledgling Press for their involvement in such an important project, and thank you to Leo for being the bravest knight we have ever seen.
The last part of the book, with its sensory help, is a wonderful tool to help others deal with their own dragons or even only get a real understanding of what Leo’s life is like. It’s simple, it’s cute, it feels so easy, and it talks to everyone, giving a face to all the good and bad things in Leo’s life.
The best strength is within ourselves. Let's let our light shine and illuminate the bravest knight's path.
This is the story of Meggy, a bookish lady from a foreign land.
What do bookish ladies do? They read!
What do they read? Books!
One day, in this foreign land, came the bravest knight the bookish lady had ever seen.
Accompanied with colourful illustrations, striking dragons, and an army of faithful weapons,
The bravest knight taught the bookish lady a lesson.
Life is a battle and the monsters can come from anywhere.
What do brave knights do when monsters attack them?
Brave knights like Leo stay strong and face the dragons.
Drawings and feelings… The bookish lady learned a lot about the life of the bravest knight.
Life is unfair, and you can’t fight it. Instead, the bravest knight takes all his courage to face the dragons, helped by beating hearts ready to give their best support.
The bravest knight in the kingdom shows his power, his resilience. He takes his fear and strikes the dragons until the monsters realise they are not strong enough to destroy the kingdom and the knight.
Love is the most magical weapon and, filled with it, the bravest knight rises above, fuelled with an outstanding will to live.
The bookish lady smiles at the pictures of the knight, she feels her heart ache, break, jump with joy.
The bookish ladies tells the pencil holder and the story teller that they save lives and minds by sharing the story of the bravest knight she has ever seen.
The bookish lady wishes she could draw a million cuddles to send to the bravest knight she has ever seen.
Leo’s kingdom, a beautiful place with nice minstrels, clever wizards, resourceful witches, and loving parents, is no place for dragons. It takes a world to be ready to chase away the monsters. The world is not so much a dark place when it is lit with the kindness of people.
Meggy the bookish lady sends her love to the bravest knight she has ever seen.
December 8, 2020
🐉🐉🐉🐉🐉🐉🐉🐉🐉🐉🐉🐉🐉🐉Book Review
🐉Today is my stop on the blog tour. Being a school librarian, I am thrilled to be reviewing a children's book. Thank you to Fledging Press, LoveBookTours and Gill White for giving me the opportunity to review this story.
🐉Everybody in the kingdom is supporting the brave knight Leo in his battle against his fearsome dragons. They try lots of different things to help him defeat them but eventually Leo realises that the most important thing to do is to believe in himself.
🐉This beautifully illustrated book with a poignant and uplifting rhyming story encourages children to persevere and find strength in the face of adversity, even when it seems that nothing is working. Written by Gill White for her son Leo who suffers from Ohtahara Syndrome, an extremely rare form of epilepsy, and beautifully illustrated by Fife artist Gilli B, this story has been positively received by parents of children with complex needs, by care workers and medical staff and by parents of healthy young children who love the book simply as an adventure story. All royalties from the sale of this book will go to CHAS (Children's Hospices across Scotland).
🐉This was a beautifully written story and working in a school, I felt myself and my class were a perfect audience to review this.
🐉Although the story highlights Leo and his seizures that create these lightening dragons, and the coping strategies he uses to manage this, myself and my teacher felt that the theme was also transferable to our school and its learning powers.
🐉We nurture children in our school to build resilience within themselves and to manage their emotions when situations become tricky, so this story highlighted how we can recognise those moments and change our mindset to comfort ourselves.
🐉Our Year R class felt that Leo was a fantastic main character as he looked like most children and they liked the dragons because they were scary and sometimes our emotions are quite scary.
🐉We intend to use this book throughout our school and year groups now.
What a great story.
5/5 🐉🐉🐉🐉🐉
@leolightningdragons @fledglingpress @lovebookstours
🐉Today is my stop on the blog tour. Being a school librarian, I am thrilled to be reviewing a children's book. Thank you to Fledging Press, LoveBookTours and Gill White for giving me the opportunity to review this story.
🐉Everybody in the kingdom is supporting the brave knight Leo in his battle against his fearsome dragons. They try lots of different things to help him defeat them but eventually Leo realises that the most important thing to do is to believe in himself.
🐉This beautifully illustrated book with a poignant and uplifting rhyming story encourages children to persevere and find strength in the face of adversity, even when it seems that nothing is working. Written by Gill White for her son Leo who suffers from Ohtahara Syndrome, an extremely rare form of epilepsy, and beautifully illustrated by Fife artist Gilli B, this story has been positively received by parents of children with complex needs, by care workers and medical staff and by parents of healthy young children who love the book simply as an adventure story. All royalties from the sale of this book will go to CHAS (Children's Hospices across Scotland).
🐉This was a beautifully written story and working in a school, I felt myself and my class were a perfect audience to review this.
🐉Although the story highlights Leo and his seizures that create these lightening dragons, and the coping strategies he uses to manage this, myself and my teacher felt that the theme was also transferable to our school and its learning powers.
🐉We nurture children in our school to build resilience within themselves and to manage their emotions when situations become tricky, so this story highlighted how we can recognise those moments and change our mindset to comfort ourselves.
🐉Our Year R class felt that Leo was a fantastic main character as he looked like most children and they liked the dragons because they were scary and sometimes our emotions are quite scary.
🐉We intend to use this book throughout our school and year groups now.
What a great story.
5/5 🐉🐉🐉🐉🐉
@leolightningdragons @fledglingpress @lovebookstours
December 20, 2019
I have to be completely honest here and admit that I fell in love with this book before I'd opened the first page. As well as the enticing child-like illustration on the front cover, this book was written by a mother for her son Leo who has Ohtahara Syndrome and the love for Leo just oozes out of every page.
The lightning dragons live inside Leo and with the help from family, friends and a variety of characters he is brave and battles the dragons until they go away. The story is written in rhyming form which will delight any young child and allow them to participate by guessing the rhyming words. At the back there are suggestions to turn the story into an interactive sensory performance which completely appeals to the teacher and SENDCo in me. What better way to make a book accessible and bring a story to life. Genius!
The illustrations are captivating and help bring the story to life for younger readers. Every page is bursting with colour and action and the pictures provide as many discussion points as the text does.
I've read several children's books that explain and include characters with a variety of disabilities/syndromes etc and all do a good job but there is something special about Leo and the Lightning Dragons. It explains Ohtahara Syndrome in the most child friendly and wonderful way that the youngest children can understand on an appropriate level.
This is a stunning book and I would love to hear that the author writes more stories to explain other difficult concepts to children.
The lightning dragons live inside Leo and with the help from family, friends and a variety of characters he is brave and battles the dragons until they go away. The story is written in rhyming form which will delight any young child and allow them to participate by guessing the rhyming words. At the back there are suggestions to turn the story into an interactive sensory performance which completely appeals to the teacher and SENDCo in me. What better way to make a book accessible and bring a story to life. Genius!
The illustrations are captivating and help bring the story to life for younger readers. Every page is bursting with colour and action and the pictures provide as many discussion points as the text does.
I've read several children's books that explain and include characters with a variety of disabilities/syndromes etc and all do a good job but there is something special about Leo and the Lightning Dragons. It explains Ohtahara Syndrome in the most child friendly and wonderful way that the youngest children can understand on an appropriate level.
This is a stunning book and I would love to hear that the author writes more stories to explain other difficult concepts to children.
December 9, 2020
This gorgeous picture book tells the story of a brave young knight who is faced with lots of adversity but through grit and determination doesn't give up. The illustrations are bold, bright and colourful adding to the narrative. The text is also very striking and appealing, with a mixture of different fonts to highlight significant words. The double page at the back of the book gives some wonderful suggestions and activities for children to try out at home to bring the story alive.
I read this story to my Key Stage one class and they loved it. They were memorised by the pictures and were rooting for Leo to defeat the dragons. The book led to lots of discussions about Leo's feelings at different stages as well as the values that were displayed in the story.
This book was extremely touching. My daughter was born with a rare genetic liver disease and had a liver transplant at 3 years of age. Knowing that this book was written for her son who also has health issues I could completely relate to the words that were written on the page. Having a child who is unwell is one of the hardest things to face as a parent. Going through treatments, procedures and having that constant uncertainty to deal with is extremely hard and stressful. I can see this book adding some comfort to those going through worrying times and providing valuable opportunities to discuss their own battles.
All royalties from the sale of this book will go to CHAS (Children's Hospices across Scotland).
I read this story to my Key Stage one class and they loved it. They were memorised by the pictures and were rooting for Leo to defeat the dragons. The book led to lots of discussions about Leo's feelings at different stages as well as the values that were displayed in the story.
This book was extremely touching. My daughter was born with a rare genetic liver disease and had a liver transplant at 3 years of age. Knowing that this book was written for her son who also has health issues I could completely relate to the words that were written on the page. Having a child who is unwell is one of the hardest things to face as a parent. Going through treatments, procedures and having that constant uncertainty to deal with is extremely hard and stressful. I can see this book adding some comfort to those going through worrying times and providing valuable opportunities to discuss their own battles.
All royalties from the sale of this book will go to CHAS (Children's Hospices across Scotland).
January 5, 2020
This is a wonderful children’s book with a strong message beautifully presented.
Leo is a knight but the dragons he battles are internal ones. The book has been written for Leo who has a rare form of epilepsy. Although, I feel it would be a great book for any child who is dealing with something medical or even mental health issues.
My son has Asperger’s and I can see this story being very helpful to him. Giving him a way of explaining how he feels when he’s in sensory overload for example.
The story is described as rhyming, however, I didn’t feel that it rhymed all that well. It’s a minor complaint and didn’t detract from our enjoyment of the story.
I loved the way the text is presented in the story. Lots of different fonts are used that match the words, which is fabulously engaging for non readers. The illustrations are colourful, almost child like in their presentation, which works with the message of the story.
My children and I have thoroughly enjoyed sharing Leo’s story. I loved the powerful message of believing in yourself and the way the whole book is presented. I can see this becoming a firm bedtime favourite in our house.
My thanks to the publishers for a copy of the story in exchange for an honest review.
Leo is a knight but the dragons he battles are internal ones. The book has been written for Leo who has a rare form of epilepsy. Although, I feel it would be a great book for any child who is dealing with something medical or even mental health issues.
My son has Asperger’s and I can see this story being very helpful to him. Giving him a way of explaining how he feels when he’s in sensory overload for example.
The story is described as rhyming, however, I didn’t feel that it rhymed all that well. It’s a minor complaint and didn’t detract from our enjoyment of the story.
I loved the way the text is presented in the story. Lots of different fonts are used that match the words, which is fabulously engaging for non readers. The illustrations are colourful, almost child like in their presentation, which works with the message of the story.
My children and I have thoroughly enjoyed sharing Leo’s story. I loved the powerful message of believing in yourself and the way the whole book is presented. I can see this becoming a firm bedtime favourite in our house.
My thanks to the publishers for a copy of the story in exchange for an honest review.
March 14, 2019
Leo and the Lightning Dragons is a wonderful picture book. The illustrations are clear, colourful, bright and drawn in a simple style that is very eye-catching. The story is heartwarming, uplifting and inclusive. It helps children, who may be in all kinds of situations, to feel they are not alone and that they, like Leo, ‘can do it’! I loved the interactive opportunities in the book being able to have sensory experiences such as blowing juice bubbles and explore feelings, emphasised with the use of different fonts, allows everyone to join in and makes for a great deal of fun.
This wonderfully positive picture book is for all children the storyline describing a young knight fighting dragons demonstrating courage, bravery and determination things we all need at times and is a delight to read.
I’d highly recommend this book and it’s just the right sort of story that should be in all children’s reading areas across the UK.
The book is raising much needed funds for CHAS (Children’s Hospices across Scotland).
This wonderfully positive picture book is for all children the storyline describing a young knight fighting dragons demonstrating courage, bravery and determination things we all need at times and is a delight to read.
I’d highly recommend this book and it’s just the right sort of story that should be in all children’s reading areas across the UK.
The book is raising much needed funds for CHAS (Children’s Hospices across Scotland).
January 1, 2020
This originally appeared at The Irresponsible Reader.
---
Leo is a very brave knight battling a different kind of dragon—his foes attack him from the inside where he cannot hide from them. He has a lot of people willing to help him, and several do their best, but this is a fight that Leo has to do on his own—so he musters up the courage and the confidence to get the job done with their support.
Gilli B is absolutely the right illustrator for this book! Her style brought it to life—I love her depiction of Lightning Dragons, I doubt that's the approach many artists would've taken with them. Her chimerical pictures capture the spirit of the book beyond those, too. Delightful work.
If you've read anything about this book, you know how hard it would be to saying anything that's not positive about the book (and if you haven't, click here). But I'm going to—it's too short. I'm not looking for much, but we need a little more—just a couple of pages. There wouldn't even need to be much text, some illustrations might do the trick. Leo's got a tough battle to fight, and it's over a bit too quickly, which makes it seem too easy. And there's no way that Leo's Lightning Dragons (fictional or not) are easily vanquished. How White can accomplish that without running afoul of the book's overwhelming positivity, I'm not sure. I just think the subject deserves it.
Do the pluses outweigh my criticism? Oh yes. It's a great book and I'm so glad I read it. The rhymes are cute, the story is very positive, great illustrations and the imagery of the Lightning Dragon fighting inside Leo is a great way to get the idea of epilepsy across to a picture book reader. A good story that should provide a springboard for a discussion with children about this condition and how hard it has to be for people to deal with. This is definitely one to pick up for your young reader.
My thanks to Love Books Group for the invitation to participate in this tour and the materials they provided.
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Leo is a very brave knight battling a different kind of dragon—his foes attack him from the inside where he cannot hide from them. He has a lot of people willing to help him, and several do their best, but this is a fight that Leo has to do on his own—so he musters up the courage and the confidence to get the job done with their support.
Gilli B is absolutely the right illustrator for this book! Her style brought it to life—I love her depiction of Lightning Dragons, I doubt that's the approach many artists would've taken with them. Her chimerical pictures capture the spirit of the book beyond those, too. Delightful work.
If you've read anything about this book, you know how hard it would be to saying anything that's not positive about the book (and if you haven't, click here). But I'm going to—it's too short. I'm not looking for much, but we need a little more—just a couple of pages. There wouldn't even need to be much text, some illustrations might do the trick. Leo's got a tough battle to fight, and it's over a bit too quickly, which makes it seem too easy. And there's no way that Leo's Lightning Dragons (fictional or not) are easily vanquished. How White can accomplish that without running afoul of the book's overwhelming positivity, I'm not sure. I just think the subject deserves it.
Do the pluses outweigh my criticism? Oh yes. It's a great book and I'm so glad I read it. The rhymes are cute, the story is very positive, great illustrations and the imagery of the Lightning Dragon fighting inside Leo is a great way to get the idea of epilepsy across to a picture book reader. A good story that should provide a springboard for a discussion with children about this condition and how hard it has to be for people to deal with. This is definitely one to pick up for your young reader.
My thanks to Love Books Group for the invitation to participate in this tour and the materials they provided.
December 18, 2019
This is an inspirational book, created by a mother for her son, who has to fight his internal dragons every day. It’s hard to read this book without tears falling, the struggle is hard, for such a small child, but as often happens, Leo is stronger than anyone believed he would be.
This story has relevance for children facing illness, but will also appeal to children as a storybook, with a powerful message about the support of others, but ultimately, the will to win is internal and within the individual.
The illustrations are colourful and reflect the text well. Despite, the poignancy, the book’s ethos is positive and uplifting, and speaks of a child’s courage to overcome illness, with their positive outlook and the support of family.
There are some ways to reinforce the sensory aspect of the book at the end of the story, which makes the story interactive and interesting.
I received a copy of this book from the author and Fledgling Press in return for an honest review.
This story has relevance for children facing illness, but will also appeal to children as a storybook, with a powerful message about the support of others, but ultimately, the will to win is internal and within the individual.
The illustrations are colourful and reflect the text well. Despite, the poignancy, the book’s ethos is positive and uplifting, and speaks of a child’s courage to overcome illness, with their positive outlook and the support of family.
There are some ways to reinforce the sensory aspect of the book at the end of the story, which makes the story interactive and interesting.
I received a copy of this book from the author and Fledgling Press in return for an honest review.
December 23, 2019
WOW WOW What a great read. I haven’t read a Children’s books on Physical Disablities. So this is my first and I loved it.
Leo and the Lightning Dragons is an absolutely magical little rhyming story book which is so beautifully illustrated, with an extremely eye-catching cover. Leo and the Lightning Dragons is a truly wonderful picture book. It’s a visual delight, the illustrations are clear and bright in a simplistic manner but are very appealing to the eye.
I love how the Author wrote from the heart. A real message to the young readers that against all odds fight for what is important, believe in yourself. This is definitely a great book and reminder to never give up fighting. 5 stars for sure!
Thank you to Loves Books Group Tours and Publishers for the opportunity to participate in this blog tour. and the following:
@FledglingPress
@leolightdragons
@LoveBooksGroup
Leo and the Lightning Dragons is an absolutely magical little rhyming story book which is so beautifully illustrated, with an extremely eye-catching cover. Leo and the Lightning Dragons is a truly wonderful picture book. It’s a visual delight, the illustrations are clear and bright in a simplistic manner but are very appealing to the eye.
I love how the Author wrote from the heart. A real message to the young readers that against all odds fight for what is important, believe in yourself. This is definitely a great book and reminder to never give up fighting. 5 stars for sure!
Thank you to Loves Books Group Tours and Publishers for the opportunity to participate in this blog tour. and the following:
@FledglingPress
@leolightdragons
@LoveBooksGroup
February 25, 2019
I'm new to Children's book.
The book highlights the strength of family and importance of sticking together. Also it showcases how Leo overcame the war with the lightning dragons inside his head. The dragons Leo fought is the problems one would face on their day to day life. The family and people around him, who was trying to help was heart warming. While he was glad people are there to support him, he must have belief in himself to overcome the war. The end was good. It had a moral, "One should always have faith in themselves," which I appreciated a lot.
This is an entertaining and inspiring read. It's definitely a story I'd love to read and buy as a gift for children. Highly recommended for children. A perfect gift for birthdays 😀
**I received ARC in exchange of an honest review.**
The book highlights the strength of family and importance of sticking together. Also it showcases how Leo overcame the war with the lightning dragons inside his head. The dragons Leo fought is the problems one would face on their day to day life. The family and people around him, who was trying to help was heart warming. While he was glad people are there to support him, he must have belief in himself to overcome the war. The end was good. It had a moral, "One should always have faith in themselves," which I appreciated a lot.
This is an entertaining and inspiring read. It's definitely a story I'd love to read and buy as a gift for children. Highly recommended for children. A perfect gift for birthdays 😀
**I received ARC in exchange of an honest review.**
January 27, 2020
Firstly, I’d like to say that the dedication to Leo at the front of the book was beautiful, he is truly a remarkable boy.
Reading this book, it would look like a regular preschool, early years children’s book that many parents would read to their children. I am sure a child wouldn’t understand that it is based on Leo’s own ‘dragons’ but to us parents, we know and I for one think Leo is a brave young boy.
The story was beautifully written and illustrated, my son really likes it.
I really like that they have included sensory play at the back of the book to bring the book to life.
This book is more than just a story, it is a real boys life, which makes it even more special and I hope they do find something to help Leo and wish them every success with the book.
Reading this book, it would look like a regular preschool, early years children’s book that many parents would read to their children. I am sure a child wouldn’t understand that it is based on Leo’s own ‘dragons’ but to us parents, we know and I for one think Leo is a brave young boy.
The story was beautifully written and illustrated, my son really likes it.
I really like that they have included sensory play at the back of the book to bring the book to life.
This book is more than just a story, it is a real boys life, which makes it even more special and I hope they do find something to help Leo and wish them every success with the book.
December 10, 2020
This is the sweetest children’s story I have read, with a hero that is so strong and resilient!
We have read stories about hero’s defeating big and scary monsters, but this book tells a different story. It tells the story of a hero fighting dragons who you can’t see because they attack from the inside. Beautifully illustrated and written simplistically so that it is easy to understand for young children, this book also teaches children about courage and persistence.
I read this to my little brother and he loved listening and looking at the illustrations! I highly recommend this book to anyone who is looking to buy a book for a child and the royalties from every purchase go to Children’s Hospices across Scotland too!
Thank you for sending me a gifted copy of the book for a review
We have read stories about hero’s defeating big and scary monsters, but this book tells a different story. It tells the story of a hero fighting dragons who you can’t see because they attack from the inside. Beautifully illustrated and written simplistically so that it is easy to understand for young children, this book also teaches children about courage and persistence.
I read this to my little brother and he loved listening and looking at the illustrations! I highly recommend this book to anyone who is looking to buy a book for a child and the royalties from every purchase go to Children’s Hospices across Scotland too!
Thank you for sending me a gifted copy of the book for a review
December 27, 2020
This is a beautifully illustrated children's book. It is an uplifting story of courage, bravery, strength and perseverance. I like how the book is written in rhyme and will appeal to children of different ages. It will help children understand that perseverance can pay off and highlights that sometimes people are fighting battles you can't see.
At the end of the book the author suggests some sensory ideas which I think is a lovely touch.
The author wrote the book before her sons first birthday after he was diagnosed with a rare form of epilepsy (Ohtahara Syndrome). Publication of the book will hopefully help raise awareness of Ohtahara Syndrome and CHAS (Children's Hospices Across Scotland).
I was kindly gifted a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
At the end of the book the author suggests some sensory ideas which I think is a lovely touch.
The author wrote the book before her sons first birthday after he was diagnosed with a rare form of epilepsy (Ohtahara Syndrome). Publication of the book will hopefully help raise awareness of Ohtahara Syndrome and CHAS (Children's Hospices Across Scotland).
I was kindly gifted a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
December 23, 2019
Leo and the Lightning Dragons is a wonderful and beautifully illustrated children's book. It tells the story of little Leo ,a brave Knight who must the fight dragons who are attacking him from the inside, the witches tried potions, the wizard tried poison and the minstrels tried songs but nothing seemed to work. Until out brave Leo had had enough and fought his very hardest to defeat the dragons.
The illustrations really bring this story to life and children and adults alike will enjoy this tale, at the end there are some suggestions for making Leo and Lightning Dragon a sensory story that would be good to utilise in a nursery home or care environment.
The illustrations really bring this story to life and children and adults alike will enjoy this tale, at the end there are some suggestions for making Leo and Lightning Dragon a sensory story that would be good to utilise in a nursery home or care environment.
December 7, 2020
Leo the Knight is a brave little Knight. He has learned from Knights before him how to fight dragons.
The dragons that Leo needs to fight arent just regular dragons, these are the dragons that turn into lightning bolts and go off inside his head.
Leo must believe in himself that he is strong enough to battle these dragons.
My little boy read this and he loved it. I love how it teaches kids to look within themselves to find courage and to be brave.
It is beautifully illustrated and a must read for all children.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The dragons that Leo needs to fight arent just regular dragons, these are the dragons that turn into lightning bolts and go off inside his head.
Leo must believe in himself that he is strong enough to battle these dragons.
My little boy read this and he loved it. I love how it teaches kids to look within themselves to find courage and to be brave.
It is beautifully illustrated and a must read for all children.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
December 9, 2020
The Boys loved this book! They are both big fans of Knights and love going to Warwick Castle - so this was the perfect book for them!
Zachary said that where Leo’s dragon could be about anything he thought that it could be how bullies cant get you.
Xander loved the pictures.
This is such a lovely book. The illustrations are beautiful and Leo is so cute! It is also an important story but is handled lightly for children.
This would make a lovely Christmas present for budding Knights 🏰
Zachary said that where Leo’s dragon could be about anything he thought that it could be how bullies cant get you.
Xander loved the pictures.
This is such a lovely book. The illustrations are beautiful and Leo is so cute! It is also an important story but is handled lightly for children.
This would make a lovely Christmas present for budding Knights 🏰
December 22, 2020
This was a truly magical book. The illustrations are eye-catching and beautiful, they brought the words to life. I have a cousin with learning difficulties and he was captivated throughout. The book is written about Leo who suffers from a rare form of Epilepsy (Ohtahara Syndrome). All royalties from the book are going to CHAS. One point I did like was the sensory ideas in the back of the book to use whilst reading with the children
March 13, 2019
A beautiful story, beautifully told, about a very brave little boy, bought it for my grandsons birthday, who is actually called Leo, he loves it!!!!
December 29, 2019
5 stars
January 18, 2021
You can feel the love from the author and as a special needs parent, I love the magical world created to understand a debilitating condition which brings heartache to so many.
December 6, 2019
This was a lovely book that the children enjoyed very much. Lots of great pictures to create more stories and actions.
January 15, 2021
Thank you to the author and lovebookstours for my copy of this book in return for my own honest review. I read this to my children who are 7 and 5, they both really enjoyed it.
I would recommended this to everyone that has children or a child in their life whether it be your cousin, niece, nephew or other.
This book really helps children to believe in themselves and when they do that they can achieve anything.
I would recommended this to everyone that has children or a child in their life whether it be your cousin, niece, nephew or other.
This book really helps children to believe in themselves and when they do that they can achieve anything.
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