Dealing with Dragons by Patricia C. Wrede: Book Review

Dealing with Dragons, the first book in the Enchanted Forest Chronicles, follows the story of Princess Cimorene, a tomboyish princess who has absolutely zero interest in doing the things a ‘proper’ princess is supposed to do. Determined to escape an arranged marriage and at her wits’ end with the restrictions her parents have put on her, Cimorene runs away from home and volunteers to be a dragon’s princess.

This book is practically a spoof of every fairy tale trope ever, and it’s so well done. The characters are all lovable and well-written, and there is plenty of action to keep the story moving throughout. I really enjoyed a lot of the common cliches being flipped on their head, and the explanation of how wizards work their magic and their connections to their staffs.

My only (pseudo) criticism is just that the wizards’ motivations don’t really seem to be explored; they’re more or less painted in a black-and-white, good-and-evil sort of light. However, that’s pretty typical and makes sense for the young audience, and also for something that spins off somewhat from fairy tales.

This series was one of my favorites as a young teen, and as an adult it still holds up. Very entertaining and a quick read! – Anne ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

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Dealing with Dragons is an entertaining, witty, and excellent read! Princess Cimorene is not a stereotypical type of princess and she makes an excellent protagonist to follow in this book.

The setting is enchanting, the characters are well developed, and the plot is interesting.

I thought that the dragons were quite amusing and their dialogue was great. Cimorene works hard to make her own way in life and I loved the message she gives to younger audiences! – Jake ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

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Read all of our reviews for The Enchanted Forest Chronicles series:

• Dealing with Dragons book review
• Searching for Dragons book review
• Calling on Dragons book review
• Talking to Dragons book review

Also by Patricia C. Wrede:

• Book of Enchantments book review