Dobry facts for kids
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Author | Monica Shannon |
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Illustrator | Atanas Katchamakoff |
Country | United States |
Language | English |
Genre | Children's novel |
Publisher | The Viking Press |
Publication date
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1934 |
Media type | Print (Hardback & Paperback) |
Pages | 176 |
ISBN | 9780140363340 |
Dobry is a special book written by Monica Shannon. It was first published in 1934. This book won the famous Newbery Medal in 1935. The Newbery Medal is given to the best children's book in America. A talented sculptor named Atanas Katchamakoff, who was born in Bulgaria, drew the pictures for the book.
Contents
What is Dobry About?
Dobry's Life in Bulgaria
Dobry is a young boy living in a small farming village in Bulgaria. He lives with his mother and grandfather. They are all very dedicated to farming. Dobry spends a lot of his early life helping them in the fields. Most of his free time is spent with his best friend, Neda. Neda is the daughter of the village shoemaker.
Dobry Discovers His Talent
When Dobry is still young, he finds a deep love for art. He is naturally very good at drawing and sculpting. To buy art supplies, he takes a job as the village cow herder. For several years, he spends his time practicing and improving his art skills.
Family Support and Worries
Neda and Dobry's grandfather are very impressed with his art. They support his dedication. However, Dobry's mother becomes worried. She always thought Dobry would take over the family farm when he grew up. She sees his time spent on art as wasted time that could be used for farm work.
A Grandfather's Wisdom
Slowly, Dobry's grandfather helps his mother understand. He convinces her that such a special talent should be allowed to grow. Dobry then creates a beautiful snow sculpture of the nativity. The whole town praises his amazing work. His mother finally sees how truly skilled her son is.
A New Path for Dobry
At the next New Year celebration, Dobry's mother gives him a surprise gift. She has saved money for him to go to an art academy. Dobry is very excited to prepare for his new life. Neda worries that he will leave the village forever. But Dobry promises her that he will return and marry her after he finishes his education.
Who Are the Main Characters?
Dobry
Dobry is the main character of the book. He starts as a young farm boy. As he grows up, he develops a strong love and amazing skill for art. He is talented at both drawing and sculpting.
Neda
Neda is the daughter of the village shoemaker. She is Dobry's best friend for his whole life. They spend a lot of time together. Many of Dobry's art creations are gifts he made for her. As they get older, their friendship turns into a romantic interest. Dobry leaves the village promising to marry her one day.
Roda (Dobry's Mother)
Roda is Dobry's mother. Her husband died when Dobry was very young. She is completely dedicated to their family farm. At first, she is upset when Dobry shows more interest in art than farming. But eventually, she understands his talent. She gives Dobry the money he needs to attend art school.
Grandfather
Dobry's grandfather lives and works on the farm with them. He is known as a great storyteller in their region. He often entertains people with his tales. He knows many Bulgarian folk tales and can also invent his own stories. Because he is so creative, he immediately supports Dobry's art. He helps convince Dobry's mother to let him follow his artistic dreams.