Herb the Vegetarian Dragon is a fabulous role model for kids. He grows a garden, he cooks nutritious meals and he is sensitive and caring. He stays true to his values even when they are not popular with others. In this case, he chooses not to eat meat when everyone around him is telling him that's what dragons do.
This is not a new book, but I think it's a modern classic and it compliments the shelves of eco friendly families. It's wonderful for vegetarian kids to have something to look at that represents their lifestyle and ideals. And it's great for parents who might feel that there's very little out there on this topic as it relates to children. I know my son gets excited when he hears about vegetarian characters or other vegetarian people. He'll say, "look mom, they're vegetarian, like us," and it gives him a sense of community. I forget that vegetarianism is considered "alternative" by many until I go to write something like this. Then I realize just how much I appreciate these rare gems.
This book is not judgmental to meat eaters in any way and I think it would be great to have in classrooms to encourage sensitivity to the vegetarian lifestyle. There's a big message of tolerance and living in harmony with others. Jules Bass has created a wonderful character in Herb and Debbie Harter's illustrations are vibrant and colorful and perfect for the story. I hope they publish a sequel. Find it HERE.
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