Dealing With Dragons (Enchanted Forest Chronicles (Paperback))
About the Author and the Book
Patricia C. Wrede’s “Dealing With Dragons,” the first book in the Enchanted Forest Chronicles, isn’t your typical damsel-in-distress fairytale.
Published in 1990, this charming children’s fantasy novel flips the script on traditional tropes, offering a refreshing and witty take on the genre.
Right from the start, readers are introduced to Princess Cimorene, a young royal who’d rather wrestle dragons than wear frilly dresses.
A Princess Unlike Any Other
“Dealing With Dragons” throws the conventional princess narrative out the window.
Cimorene isn’t interested in embroidery, balls, or marrying a prince; she prefers adventures, puzzles, and most of all, dragons.
This sets the stage for a delightfully unconventional story where Cimorene seeks out Kazul, one of the kingdom’s most formidable dragons, to escape the confines of royal life and pursue her own aspirations.
A Whimsical World of Dragons and Magic
Wrede masterfully constructs a world filled with quirky characters and unexpected twists.
The narrative is divided into chapters, each advancing Cimorene’s adventures as she navigates Kazul’s domain, negotiates with witches, and outwits a particularly dense prince.
The writing style is light-hearted and engaging, making “Dealing With Dragons” a quick and enjoyable read for children and adults alike.
One area where “Dealing With Dragons” particularly shines is in its witty dialogue and humor.
While geared towards younger readers, the humor is sophisticated enough to entertain adults, too. It is worth exploring all the volumes from The Enchanted Forest Chronicles collection. You can check it out on [GoodReads](https://www.goodreads.com/series/40629-the-enchanted-forest-chronicles).
Cimorene’s Unconventional Journey
“Dealing With Dragons” follows Cimorene as she escapes the stifling expectations of princesshood and seeks refuge with Kazul, a dragon whose reputation is as fiery as his breath.
Instead of being held captive, Cimorene forms a unique bond with Kazul, becoming his princess and establishing a set of rules for their arrangement.
Together, they navigate the complexities of the Enchanted Forest, encountering a host of magical creatures and facing challenges that test Cimorene’s resourcefulness and wit.
Wrede cleverly subverts expectations at every turn, keeping readers guessing and engaged throughout this extraordinary journey.
A Feminist Fairy Tale for All Ages
“Dealing With Dragons” avoids common pitfalls often found in children’s literature, like didacticism and simplistic characterization.
Instead, it offers a nuanced portrayal of a strong female protagonist who defies traditional gender roles.
Cimorene’s agency is emphasized throughout the story, which may be particularly encouraging for young girls seeking empowering narratives featuring independent female characters.
The book’s focus on self-discovery and challenging expectations resonates universally.
The Charm of Dealing With Dragons
“Dealing With Dragons” successfully blends classic fairy tale elements with a modern sensibility.
The book is more than just a whimsical adventure; it challenges societal norms and encourages readers to question traditional roles.
Wrede’s engaging writing style and creative storytelling make this a must-read for anyone who enjoys a good dose of fantasy and wit.
“Dealing With Dragons” and its Enduring Appeal
The Enchanted Forest Chronicles has captured the hearts of readers for over three decades, and “Dealing With Dragons” lays the foundation for this beloved series.
The combination of humor, adventure, and a strong female lead makes this book a timeless classic.
Wrede’s “Dealing With Dragons” provides a unique experience, appealing to a wide audience despite being categorized as a children’s book.
It’s a testament to Wrede’s skill that she can create a world that is both familiar and fantastical, offering escapism and social commentary in equal measure.
Exploring Themes of Self-Discovery and Empowerment
“Dealing With Dragons” explores several important themes.
One of the most prominent is the idea of self-discovery.
Cimorene’s journey is not merely about escaping the boredom of palace life; it’s about finding her own path and defining her role in the world.
This theme of empowerment resonates with readers who may also feel constrained by societal expectations or a desire to break free from prescribed roles.
A World of Dragons, Witches, and Wizards
The setting of the Enchanted Forest is integral to the storytelling.
This mystical world, filled with dragons, witches, wizards, and other fantastical creatures, provides the perfect backdrop for Cimorene’s adventures.
Wrede’s detailed descriptions and imaginative world-building contribute immensely to the book’s charm and transport readers to a realm where anything is possible.
There’s a unique blend of traditional fantasy tropes with humorous subversions of these same conventions. This juxtaposition creates a refreshing take on classic fairy tale motifs.
Enduring Qualities of “Dealing With Dragons”
“Dealing With Dragons” is more than just a delightful children’s story; it’s a clever and witty exploration of self-discovery, empowerment, and the absurdity of societal expectations.
Wrede’s unique storytelling style and memorable characters have made it a timeless classic that continues to resonate with readers of all ages.
“Dealing With Dragons” continues to captivate readers with its strong heroine, funny dialog, and unexpected plot twists.
It’s a must-read for fans of fantasy, humor, and stories that champion breaking the mold.
Who Should Read “Dealing With Dragons”?
“Dealing With Dragons,” and the subsequent books in the Enchanted Forest Chronicles, are ideal for young readers who enjoy fantasy and adventure.
Parents seeking engaging stories with positive role models will also appreciate Cimorene’s independent spirit and quick wit.
Adults looking for a lighthearted and humorous escape will find much to enjoy in Wrede’s charming tale.
“Dealing with Dragons” is a perfect choice for anyone seeking a light-hearted yet thought-provoking escape.
It is sure to delight fans of fantasy and leave a lasting impression on readers of all ages.
This book is highly recommended.
