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Dragons Love Tacos


Dragons Love Tacos
By Adam Rubin
Illustrated by Daniel Salmieri
Dial Books for Young Readers, 2012. Picture Book


Did you know that dragons love tacos? Well they do, a lot. They love all kinds of tacos.Bbeef or chicken, large or small, they really really love them. Their favorite toppings are lettuce, tomato, and cheese, but be sure to leave out the spicy salsa. Spicy salsa is nothing but trouble for dragons, you can imagine why (fire breath). Dragons also love parties, especially taco parties. Robbie decides he is going to throw the dragons a taco party. When the dragons of all shapes and sizes arrive they are ready to dig into their delicious tacos, but wait, Robbie didn't read the fine print on the "Totally Mild Salsa" bottle label that read, "now with spicy jalapeno peppers". He tries to stop the dragons from taking another bite but it's too late and fire breathing panic ensues.

This picture book is just plain goofy, but a New York Times best seller nonetheless. Rubin's text is sure to bring giggles to readers young and old.  The watercolor, gouache, and colored pencil cartoon illustrations are simply perfect for the silly story line. Salmieri does a great job adding fun little details such as a taco party invitation, "A guide to Dragon Cuisine" cookbook, and dragons adorning "I love taco" t-shirts at the party. The absurdity of this tale will be a big hit to anyone with an affinity for dragons, or tacos.

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