Dasher is a children’s book written by Anne Kennedy and illustrated by Laura Diaz de Arce. It tells a touching story about a brave young reindeer who wants to fly with Santa on his magical sleigh on Christmas Eve. When Dasher learns that he is not strong enough to pull the sleigh the way the other reindeer do, he is heartbroken. He begins to doubt himself and the special Christmas gift he could bring to the world.
In Chapter One, the reader meets Dasher, a young reindeer who is determined to fly with Santa on his magical sleigh on Christmas Eve. Dasher manages to keep up with the rest of the reindeer but he just isn't able to keep up with the speed they fly at. After meeting all the other reindeer, Dasher learns that he cannot fly fast enough and he will not be able to be a part of the fabled sleigh team.
In Chapter Two, Dasher is not content to stay behind. He visits various animal friends in the forest, gathering supplies and advice to help him fly faster. With the help of his friends, the owl, the weasel, and the fox, Dasher uses his determination and ingenuity to craft a one of a kind invention to help him fly faster.
Chapter Three starts with Dasher flying his invention around the forest, still not fast enough to join the sleigh team. He finally realizes that the only way he will ever be able to fly with Santa is if he puts his trust in the power of the Christmas spirit. Once he believes in himself and the power of believing, the invention starts to shine and glow with a beautiful light and takes off, propelling Dasher across the sky until he finally joins the other reindeer in the sleigh team.
In Chapter Four, Santa and the reindeer all take off into the night sky and begin their journey of delivering gifts around the world. Dasher is more determined than ever to make this the best Christmas ever for all the little children, and he uses his invention to bring special gifts to each and every house that Santa visits.
The book ends with Dasher learning that each of us can be a special part of Christmas when we put love and believing in our hearts. It also shows that with a little courage and faith, anything is possible. Dasher's story is an inspirational tale that will warm the hearts of readers of all ages.
