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• What can you say about the characters in the text?
• Can you explain why certain parts of the narrative are in italic text?
• Discuss why the author has put a lot of the text in capital letters.

Key themes:

1. Leadership and responsibility
Hiccup's journey explores what it means to be a leader. He learns that leadership is not about strength alone, but about making thoughtful decisions and taking responsibility for others' safety and wellbeing.

2. Friendship and understanding differences
A key theme is the unusual friendship between Hiccup and Toothless. The story shows how understanding someone (or something) different can break down fear and lead to trust.

3. Courage and bravery
Characters are often tested in dangerous situations, where they must show bravery. Importantly, courage is shown in different ways, not just through fighting.

4. Identity and self-belief
Hiccup often feels like he doesn’t fit in, but over time he learns to accept himself and recognise his own strengths, even when others underestimate him.

5. Conflict and peace
The story explores the conflict between humans and dragons, but also raises the idea that peace is possible when people choose understanding over fear.