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readerette's review
adventurous
emotional
funny
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
Let me preface and say that any reader unfamiliar with common gender stereotypes should take some of the themes of this book with a grain of salt and some discussion with others who recognize "women's work" is not different from "people's work." The author's intent is clearly to undo gender stereotypes in some ways, but in others, he unfortunately reinforces the "mysterious ways of women," which are really more like the mysterious ways of people connected to nature and common sense.
That said, this is a delightful, sweet, and humorous "pre-telling" of some classic myths and tales. It feels like a youth-appropriate Madeline Miller story (and she is a favorite author of mine), and for people who enjoy Greco-Roman mythology and general creation stories, it will be fun to count the ones they recognize.
The last time I read this I was some 20ish years ago when I was not an adult, and now as an adult reader, I still enjoyed the book immensely, as much as I recall enjoying it the first time around. It's an easy read, well written (and rather delightful vocabulary considering the intended audience), nothing too stressful in the plot or characters' traits, and it shows people learning from their mistakes, finding their way in life, opening their minds, and forging healthy relationships. Excellent themes no matter one's age.
That said, this is a delightful, sweet, and humorous "pre-telling" of some classic myths and tales. It feels like a youth-appropriate Madeline Miller story (and she is a favorite author of mine), and for people who enjoy Greco-Roman mythology and general creation stories, it will be fun to count the ones they recognize.
The last time I read this I was some 20ish years ago when I was not an adult, and now as an adult reader, I still enjoyed the book immensely, as much as I recall enjoying it the first time around. It's an easy read, well written (and rather delightful vocabulary considering the intended audience), nothing too stressful in the plot or characters' traits, and it shows people learning from their mistakes, finding their way in life, opening their minds, and forging healthy relationships. Excellent themes no matter one's age.
Content Warnings
Minor: Cursing and Fire/Fire injury
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