My Father's Dragon

The story begins as an older woman narrates the adventures of her father, Elmer Elevator, during his childhood. Elmer and his mother, Dela, owned a candy store in a quaint town that soon faced troubles as the community began to dwindle.

Following the closure of their candy shop, Elmer and Dela relocate to a distant city in hopes of starting anew. However, the transition proves challenging as they struggle to make ends meet and exhaust their savings.

Dela faces immense difficulties in finding stable employment amidst the city's competition. She manages to pay rent to Mrs. McClaren but often feels overwhelmed and disheartened about their financial situation.

In the midst of their struggles, Elmer encounters a quirky cat who surprisingly begins to talk to him. This cat becomes an unexpected friend for Elmer, offering companionship during his lonely moments.

The cat reveals to Elmer that a dragon on Wild Island might be able to help save their candy shop. Excited by the prospect, Elmer decides to embark on an adventure to the island with the aid of a friendly whale named Soda.

Upon reaching Wild Island, Soda informs Elmer about a gorilla named Saiwa who is using the dragon, Boris, to prevent the island from sinking. The stakes are high as the island's situation declines, requiring immediate help.

Elmer learns that Boris has been bound to the task of saving the island but has yet to find success. Elmer decides that he must free Boris to allow both of them to work together and seek out a wise tortoise named Aratuah who can help.

Boris explains that he has been waiting to become an 'After Dragon' for many years. Forming a bond with Elmer, they agree that in exchange for Elmer helping Boris, he will assist Elmer in gathering money for their candy shop.

As Elmer and Boris navigate their quest, they encounter various inhabitants of the island who help them. However, they also face relentless challenges from Saiwa and his monkey army, who aim to thwart their plans.

Elmer and Boris strive to find the tortoise Aratuah, only to discover that he has passed away, leaving them in despair. This realization adds urgency to their mission as the island continues to sink.

While resting, Saiwa and his forces find Elmer and Boris. In a twist of fate, Boris is captured, but this event also mends his injured wing, granting him the strength he needs for their escape.

After Boris's capture, Saiwa confesses he knew about Aratuah's death and was afraid of panic among the inhabitants. This leads Elmer to reconsider his motives and how he should utilize Boris's capabilities.

Elmer realizes the real issue lies with the island's roots that are dragging it down. He encourages Boris to use his newfound strength to battle the roots, leading to a pivotal moment in their adventure.

In a climactic act of bravery, Boris leaps into the fire at the island's summit, transforming into an 'After Dragon.' This act of sacrifice is essential to lifting the island from the ocean's depths.

After their successful adventure, Elmer returns home with Boris. The story concludes with Elmer reuniting with Dela, embracing their new life, and reflecting on the extraordinary journey he just experienced.