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A review by alibookedup
When Women Were Dragons by Kelly Barnhill
adventurous
funny
mysterious
reflective
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.75
Went back and forth between 3.5 & 4 starts so we will just go with 3.75.
Unexpectedly historically cool and enjoyably bonkers. I loved the idea of wronged or just joyful women turning into dragons. It was such an interesting premise with historical accuracy of how women have been treated in comparison to men. You can imagine I was surprised when you find out dragons can still talk and knit and carry purses. Just another fun unexpected twist to the story.
Our main character, Alex, was also interesting especially in relation to her family and Beatrice. Sometimes for being the top of her class, she could be a bit dumb and thick in the head. It drove me crazy and I sometimes found her dull. I think my one con would be that the author focused more on her aunt or mother and sometimes forgot to give Alex more personality the older that she got.
Some things felt generally unfinished and unsatisfying. I feel like the first half started off really strong for me and the second half lost it’s lacquer. But still an interesting book if you’re looking for feminist content and dragons!
Unexpectedly historically cool and enjoyably bonkers. I loved the idea of wronged or just joyful women turning into dragons. It was such an interesting premise with historical accuracy of how women have been treated in comparison to men. You can imagine I was surprised when you find out dragons can still talk and knit and carry purses. Just another fun unexpected twist to the story.
Our main character, Alex, was also interesting especially in relation to her family and Beatrice. Sometimes for being the top of her class, she could be a bit dumb and thick in the head. It drove me crazy and I sometimes found her dull. I think my one con would be that the author focused more on her aunt or mother and sometimes forgot to give Alex more personality the older that she got.
Some things felt generally unfinished and unsatisfying. I feel like the first half started off really strong for me and the second half lost it’s lacquer. But still an interesting book if you’re looking for feminist content and dragons!
Content Warnings
Moderate: Cancer, Homophobia, Sexism, and Death of parent