A review by spootilious
Talking to Dragons by Patricia C. Wrede

adventurous lighthearted medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? No
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? No

2.0

 

 

Read: March 22,2024
 Title: Talking to Dragons
 Author: Patricia C. Wrede 

Series : The Enchanted Forest Chronicles #4 

Genre:  Middle Grade Fantasy 

Rating: 2/5
 Review: 

As a child I loved the entirety of the Enchanted Forest Chronicles. As an adult, I feel as if more than anything I enjoy these books for nostalgia’s sake. 
 
 Recap of thoughts on each book: 

I will say Wrede has a unique world and fun characters, and she can definitely put together a one of a kind plot. However, there were a lot of downfalls to this book. Wrede doesn’t seem to have any rhythm, making the writing monotonous and telling, rather than showing experience which I have mention in each of these reviews. It is good for children learning to read but not for those who already enjoy it. 
 
 Thoughts on This book: 

There is very little detail in the book. It reads more like a list of what happens to the main character more than anything. I also don’t care for first person unless its done really well or adds something to the story. Unfortunately, that’s not the case here. The story being told in first person adds nothing especially considering there is no emotion or reaction from him. It makes the entirety of the story a bit cold and impersonal. 

The novel is also a product of its time and could be taken offense to by individuals that have non-traditional pronouns; considering that the young dragon who has not chosen a sex or gender in the novel is referred to as an ‘it’ repeatedly. 

Other than that this has the same things I do like about the other books: Fun themes, fun characters and a unique plot and setting. 

Overall, I loved this book as a child and still recommend it to early readers but for learning purposes not entertainment. 

 

QUOTES: N/A