Nina's days are filled with one duty: keeping a dangerous road safe for travelers. She lights lanterns along the path so that the travelers don't become lost in the forest. A chance encounter with a dragon brings new friend into her life. The dragon likes Nina very much but convincing the dragon's family of her worth may be impossible.




The Matchstick Umbrella is a story inspired by classical fairytales that feature damsels in distress and dangerous dragons, but with a few surprising twists. What if the damsel saved a dragon in distress? Join Nina and Pita on a magical adventure that highlights the importance of both kindness and bravery. This book features charming illustrations that draw on imagery from Japanese wood block prints and classic American cartoons.