A Dragon on the Roof: A Children's Book Inspired by Antoni Gaudí - Hardcover

by Cecile Alix (Author), Fred Sochard (Illustrator)

A brave young girl, a whimsical house, and a ticklish dragon help young readers see the world through Gaud 's eyes.

Set in Casa Batll , one of Antoni Gaud 's most renowned buildings, this joyful story introduces young readers to the architect's work, inciting their curiosity and imagination along the way. While her nanny is sleeping, young Paloma hears a noise. She climbs the stairs of her house until she reaches the roof, where a dragon is perched. Unafraid, Paloma reaches out to pet the dragon--but he is ticklish, and as he laughs, he spews a myriad of sea animals that he had unwittingly swallowed. The house is transformed into a dreamy aquarium and the dragon settles into a deep sleep on the roof. C cile Alix's playful story and Fred Sochard's boldly graphic illustrations are the perfect accompaniment to Gaud 's exuberant vision. As readers make their way through Paloma's home, they are introduced to its fabulous elements--columns shaped like elephant legs; marine-inspired tiles, glass, and ironwork; and of course the spectacularly undulating, iridescent roof, which resembles a sleeping dragon. The end of the book includes a brief history of Gaud 's career and provides helpful background to Paloma's story. Kids will want to linger over the pictures and imagine what their own house would be like if a dragon were living on their roof.

Author Biography

CÉCILE ALIX is a children's book author who spends her evenings reading to her three children. She also writes plays and offers theater classes for young people. She lives in Bourg-en-Bresse, in the East of France.

FRED SOCHARD's art is inspired by folk art, adventure stories, and tales from around the world. His work includes book jackets, magazine covers, and illustrations for children's series. He lives in Anjou, France.