Inspiring children to pray to face their fears: Sasha and the Dragon

Laura E Wolfe's wonderful new book from Ancient Faith Publishing, Sasha and the Dragon, frees a saint from history and brings him into the heart of a child, and into the hearts of our children. Sasha struggles with dealing with an ill grandmother and schoolmates who bully him. One night, troubled by these conflicts, he is attacked by a dragon, the fiercest monster under the bed. But Sasha's faith and prayer become real as St. Michael not only confronts this fear through a clashing battle but also gives Sasha a way to bring kindness to others as the story progresses. This picture book is a powerful allegory to inspire our children to pray to transform their fear (and all monsters under the bed) into a pathway for love.
 
Wolfe's imagery is beautifully spare, giving us background about Sasha, such as his move from the countryside to the city, in just a few words. Illustrations by Nicholas Malara are vibrant and powerful, sure to captivate the imagination of young readers. My only request is that I wish for more dialogue between Sasha and his grandmother or his classmates. I wish to hear more of his voice. However, this detail does not detract from the inspiration of Wolfe's theme that we are never alone in facing our fears.  

Please do take a look at the book on Amazon.

I am also captivated by the information at the back of the book about the art elements typically used to portray St. Michael the Archangel in the Orthodox tradition:

• Wings: symbolize the will to obey God, as quickly as possible
• The color red: for courage and also the resurrection
• A lance or other weapon: St. Michael is the chief of the heavenly armies

I've looked at some Catholic representations, and St. Michael has wings and is holding a lance, I'm not seeing the wonderful and vibrant red color. I am fascinated by what I can learn from other traditions, and I feel so blessed to have read Sasha and the Dragon. I am inspired to visit my nearest St. Michael the Archangel parish, and after quick research, I've learned there is one in Portland, OR. And recently, they have commissioned new artwork, including a painting of St. Michael slaying a dragon. I will be going to Mass and to get a photograph. 

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