The Reluctant Dragon characters

Appears from the start

A thoughtful, book-loving country boy who understands both the villagers' stories about dragons and the reality of the mild creature living nearby. He treats the dragon as a person, carries messages between him and Saint George, and looks for a solution that will satisfy the village without causing needless harm.

Also known as The Reluctant Dragon

Appears from the start

A large dragon who has settled comfortably in a cave near the village. Contrary to traditional expectations, he dislikes violence, enjoys composing poetry, and would rather discuss art and meals than terrorize anyone. His refusal to behave like a storybook monster creates a problem once the villagers demand a heroic fight.

Also known as St George

Appears from the start

A celebrated professional dragon-slayer summoned by the villagers. Courteous and practical when the boy introduces him to the dragon, he listens before acting and recognizes that the usual heroic solution does not fit the situation.

Appears from the start

The boy's father, a shepherd who first discovers enormous tracks and the dragon's cave while tending his flock. Frightened by what he assumes the creature must be, he reports the danger at home and helps set the village's alarm in motion.

Appears from the start

The boy's practical mother, who hears her husband's report of the dragon and accepts that her son is the family member best equipped by his reading to investigate it.

Appears from the start

The local people who interpret the dragon through familiar tales and expect him to threaten them. Their insistence on a public contest makes it necessary for the boy, the dragon, and Saint George to produce a convincing resolution.