Embracing Every Learner's Unique Magic: The Story Behind Dragon Smart

As an educator, parent, and passionate advocate for kids, I’ve always believed in the magic every child brings into this world. But sometimes, the traditional markers of success don’t tell the whole story. This realization hit close to home as I watched my son, Tommy, navigate school. His journey, his challenges, triumphs, and incredible talent, became the heartbeat of our children’s book, Dragon Smart.

Tommy is one of the most dedicated learners I know. He listens, studies, and puts his heart into everything he does. But no matter how hard he worked, school often felt like a maze. Words didn’t always line up, numbers seemed to blur, and tests never quite showed the brilliance I saw in him every day. I’m sure many of you can picture a child like Tommy—someone who pours their soul into learning but feels unseen in systems that prioritize one narrow definition of success.

Here’s the thing about Tommy... His creativity is boundless, and his ability to bring ideas to life is breathtaking. Watching him find his voice through art was a powerful reminder that intelligence isn’t one-size-fits-all. I knew his story needed to be told, not just for him, but for every child who has ever felt like they didn’t quite fit the mold.
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Together, we created Dragon Smart. It’s the story of Tommy the Dragon, a learner who faces challenges in school but discovers that his true brilliance lies in his creativity and his big, kind heart. It’s a story about celebrating the many ways intelligence can look and reminding every child that they have a magic all their own.

Tommy didn’t just inspire the story, he brought it to life with his incredible illustrations. Seeing his artistic vision leap off the pages when I read the published copy for the first time was a moment I’ll never forget. It felt like the ultimate celebration of his journey and a testament to the idea that every child’s gifts deserve to be recognized and nurtured.

As I think back on creating Dragon Smart, I’m overwhelmed by the power of storytelling to change hearts and minds. In our classrooms, homes, and communities, we have the opportunity to move beyond traditional measures of success and honor the diverse ways kids can shine. Whether a child is a dreamer, a problem solver, a builder, or a creator, their abilities matter.

To those who have shared Dragon Smart with the young learners in your life, or are considering doing so, thank you. My hope is that Tommy’s story sparks conversations about how we define intelligence and how we can celebrate every child’s unique magic. Let’s remind our kids, as I remind Tommy, that they are truly Dragon Smart.
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Thank you for being part of this journey with us. Whether you’re in a classroom, at home, or in your community, let’s work together to create spaces where every child feels valued, celebrated, and inspired to shine.

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Dragon Smart is available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble