Zoey and Sassafras: Dragons and Marshmallows

Zoey and her cat Sassafras use science experiments to help a dragon with a problem. The fantasy creature supplies the wonder, but Zoey’s response depends on investigation and testing rather than a magical rescue.

This is a strong choice for a child who likes imaginative creatures but also wants a protagonist whose useful skill is scientific problem-solving. The premise gives experimentation an immediate purpose: understanding enough to help another being. Hilo uses science-fiction mystery to build a world-saving plot; Zoey and Sassafras keeps the fantasy small enough for experiments to be the practical response.