Weepy the Dragon: Standing Tall by USA Today bestselling author J. J. Hebert is a fast-paced, emotionally engaging middle-grade fantasy about confronting bullies, believing in yourself, and learning that real strength is not about hurting others, but about knowing when to stand tall. Ideal for readers ages 9 – 12, and enjoyable for the whole family.

Years ago, when a terrible fire threatened the castle, a small dragon named Weepy saved the kingdom in the only way he knew how: with his tears.

Now twelve years old, Weepy is no longer small. He’s bigger. Stronger. And when an invading army marches toward the castle, everyone expects him to protect them again—this time with fire, fear, and force.

But as pressure mounts and the enemy invades, Weepy begins to wonder what strong really means, and whether courage always looks the way others expect it to.

With guidance from an old commander who understands the true cost of war, and the steadfast support of his human best friend Elin, Weepy must face bullies without becoming one himself. Because standing tall doesn’t always mean striking back—and the bravest choices are often the ones no one expects.

PRAISE FOR WEEPY THE DRAGON: STANDING TALL:

“Hebert’s story is one of firm morals and rapid action. Weepy is, from the start, a compelling protagonist… An entertaining moral tale for young readers about determining one’s character. Our Verdict: GET IT.” —Kirkus Reviews

“Weepy the Dragon: Standing Tall is a swiftly moving, values-driven novel for middle schoolers to explore how standing up to bullies doesn’t always mean fighting back. It’s a story of how bullies operate—what they want you to do and why they want you to do it—and what you can do to come out stronger on the other side. Author J.J. Hebert makes this theme crystal clear and altogether possible for young readers. It’s an accessible, relatable idea that parents and teachers will love talking about in class and at home… This warmhearted, powerful hero is a wonderful character to follow. Sweet kids will flock to this kindhearted dragon as they learn to believe in themselves and find out what it takes to be true and strong at the same time.” —Independent Book Review

“In Hebert’s emotionally resonant middle grade sequel to his upbeat 2012 picture book, Weepy the Dragon, Weepy is no longer an eager child, but an imposing creature who’s expected to defend a castle with more than his tears … Hebert expertly captures Weepy’s physical awkwardness and the pains he goes to to keep himself from inadvertently causing harm or damage … While continuing to explore the effects of bullying, Hebert digs deep into Weepy’s evolving understanding of himself … With the incisive Standing Tall, Hebert blends high fantasy and moral clarity, as his maturing dragon combats hostility with acumen instead of anger.” —Booklife (Publishers Weekly)

“J.J. Hebert’s Weepy the Dragon: Standing Tall is told with gentle assertions on how one can be strong without being aggressive and a bully. The language is simple to help early chapter book readers improve their reading skills. Dialogue is used effectively, helping to move the plot forward, and descriptions are used well. This is a heartwarming story with a very lovable key character: Weepy. The author stresses the importance of being strong in the positive sense, to assert one’s character and be true to oneself, and rejoice in the differences that define who we are. This is a fun, endearing story for young readers and will help them become the caring, courageous adults they should be.” —Readers’ Favorite ★★★★★