A review by jomerl
When Women Were Dragons by Kelly Barnhill

emotional inspiring medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.5

This is a life-changing book. One that I will remember forever. 

However, I had a hard time with the lack of racial diversity or even acknowledgement in the book. It touches on the LGBTQIA+ community beautifully, but there is no mention of any other intersectionality. I believe it would be even more special by representing more women - understanding it is set in the 1950s-1960s in Wisconsin. 

Some of the parts dragged on for some time, while other important pieces were skimmed over, but this is truly a magical book. I’ve never cried over a dragon before. 

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