“When Women Were Dragons” is a work of magical realism by author Kelly Regan Barnhill. It imagines a world in which women randomly transform into dragons to fly away, leaving their human lives behind. While there is a mystery here of why women are “dragoning,” don’t let the fantastical element fool you; the narrative core of this story is all too real, grounded and heartbreaking.
Set in the 1950s, with all the societal norms and expectations that era entails, “When Women Were Dragons” uses elements of the fantastical to push the boundaries of the ’50s and provide a feminist critique of the patriarchy.
Alex Green is a young girl who finds her world upended time and again. The obstacles and challenges she faces are harrowing, and the complicated dynamics of her upbringing, particularly her relationships with her family, serve as the heart of the story.
The narrative follows Alex from four years old through young adulthood. Her mother and aunt provide her with seemingly diametrically opposed role models to follow, but she must accept them both and find her own path into adulthood. “When Women Were Dragons” is a character-driven story that looks at the complexity of life choices, the dangers of pushing against the status quo, and the challenges everyone must face to find meaning in life.
“When Women Were Dragons” should appeal to readers of historical fiction, speculative fiction, magical realism and stories that challenge the status quo. Visit wcls.org to find “When Women Were Dragons” and other similarly themed stories.
“When Women Were Dragons” is the March selection for the Books and Bites book group. Join Books and Bites at Blaine Public Library at 1 p.m. Friday, March 21 for a time of community and lively conversation.
Jonathan Jakobitz is an avid reader and the branch manager of the Blaine Public Library.
Comments
No comments on this item Please log in to comment by clicking here