Written by Suzanne Younan
Illustrated by Caroline Lewington
“Suzanne Younan’s picture books are very popular amongst our students and teachers at our school. Her stories and illustrations are based in Hong Kong, often delivering a powerful message, educating children about topics such as plastic pollution, human habits and how it impacts HK country parks, and dangers of feeding wild animals.
In her third book, TGD and Rumbly Island, students will be pleasantly surprised that the narration is done by Willy, the Green Dragon, himself. A laugh out loud story, Suzanne has used lighthearted humour in connecting readers to a real life event of wild bulls invading a local supermarket as an example of the impact feeding wild animals. Kudos to Suzanne for her remarkable efforts in motivating young readers to take action in Hong Kong through her stories. "
- Ms. Macy Lau, Kowloon Junior School, Teacher Librarian
The Story
What is that strange noise? What has happened to the visiting hikers and bikers? There is trouble afoot… Two friends hatch a cunning plan that unfortunately backfires on them.
Highlighting the dangers of feeding wild animals, this story brings some light-hearted humour to a serious topic, with some new and old friends joining Willy on his third adventure for a most unbelievable story that rocks a small community to the very core.
The story of the ‘Great smash and grab’ is a true story!
Many people enjoy feeding wildlife as it allows them close contact with the animals or because they feel they are helping the animals survive. Seeing wild animals up close can be fun but providing them with a human food source nearly always leads to problems for both the animals and the humans.
The book is beautifully illustrated and made from recycled paper (cover is laminated for longevity). Visit the website for more action ideas with Willy the Green Dragon to better protect our planet!
Please also check out the other books in this eco-series.
Suzanne Younan is the founder of Draco Viridi and the volunteer group ‘Green Dragons HK’.
Suzanne has been living with her family in Hong Kong since 2014. A true nature and animal lover Suzanne was compelled to involve others in her plight to raise awareness.
A keen dragon boater and beach goer, Suzanne engaged the dragon boat community to reduce single use plastics at training and events. At one race event it can be possible for 3-4,000 single use plastic bottles to be distributed to hydrate the paddlers. The GDHK volunteer group has been working with paddlers, and event organisers, to bring alternative solutions to the single use plastic that is used.
On her journey it became apparent that education was key, especially to educate the young. More than 5.3 million single use plastic bottles are thrown away in Hong Kong on a daily basis. Yes DAILY!
During her volunteer work Suzanne decided to reach young minds with a story that might provoke a reaction in communities across Hong Kong and around the world. The Green Dragon book was written to touch the hearts of children and to lead them into action, hopefully teaching their peers and family members along the way.
About the Illustrator
Caroline was born and brought up in Hong Kong by an environmentally conscious family. While she works in the video production industry, drawing has remained a passion since childhood.