DIEGO FUEGO THE FIREFIGHTING DRAGON

A dragon who can’t breathe fire? Unheard of!

After Diego Fuego is born into a family of fire-breathing dragons living on Tierra del Fuego, the island group at the southernmost tip of South America, his extended family warmly welcomes him, but they soon realize something is amiss when Diego uncontrollably sneezes ice instead of fire. The family doctor delivers a surprising diagnosis: Diego is allergic to smoke! Determined to support him, Diego’s family members adjust their fiery habits, avoiding smoky outbursts and blazing roars as much as possible. Still, Diego, who can’t join in the flaming fun that the other young dragons enjoy, finds it hard to navigate friendships. On top of Diego’s smoke sensitivity, his frosty breath irritates family as he inadvertently freezes hot drinks and sprinkles snowflakes on his sister’s homework. Everything changes when Diego is caught in a house fire and discovers the unexpected benefits to his icy roar. This tale about the softer side of dragon lore wraps up a bit tidily, and some may be frustrated that Diego finds a happy ending only after what makes him different proves useful. Still, it’s a heartwarming story, featuring a supportive family and an endearingly resolute protagonist. Morales’ cartoonish images brim with goofy exuberance, and accessories such as earrings, hairdos, and hats give the characters personality. Spanish words and phrases are woven naturally into the dialogue throughout.

A warmly inviting tale starring a hero who’s cool under pressure.