How does one cope with bullies? Especially if they’re dragons? On Dragon Island, gentle Norman does his utmost to reform them, but what can he do if they don’t change their violent ways, and his own well-being is threatened?

The answer can be found in Dragon Island, the latest book by Martin Baynton, creator of the Jane and the Dragon series and co-creator of The WotWots. The story is illustrated by his daughter Terri Rose Baynton, author-illustrator of Mr. Bear Branches and the Cloud Conundrum.

So, how do the Bayntons handle the controversial issue of playground violence? With wit. Whimsy. And wonderfully charming illustrations. Like this:

The spoonful of sugar makes the medicine go down.

For kids, Norman’s solution is perhaps the best they can do on their own. Whereas adults need to apply adult-level measures to address the problem.

Scholastic Books New Zealand launched Dragon Island at the Auckland Storylines Festival, August 31, 2014. Check your online or brick-and-mortar retailer to get your copy.

For the latest information on Dragon Island, visit its Facebook page.

Martin Baynton:

Terri Rose Baynton: