A Dragon on the Roof: A Children’s Book Inspired by Antoni Gaudi

A brave young girl, a whimsical house, and a ticklish dragon help young readers see the world through Gaudi’s eyes. Set in Casa Batllo, one of Antoni Gaudi’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. Cecile Alix’s playful story and Fred Sochard’s boldly graphic illustrations are the perfect accompaniment to Gaudi’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 Gaudi’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. AGES: 4 to 8 AUTHOR: Cecile 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.