Spoiler Free Reread Review
Dealing with Dragons had been one of my favorite books since the first time I read it as a kid. It was more than likely my first introduction to the “Fractured Fairy Tale” sub-genre. I remember feeling so smart when I realized Cimorene’s aunt was Sleeping Beauty. I am very happy to say that Dealing with Dragons holds up. It’s got a very nice pace, enjoyable characters, world-building that’s not heavy-handed nor too light. I love it so, so much.
Cimorene is probably my favorite princess character ever. She’s no-nonsense, determined, curious, clever, and unafraid of work. I guess she technically falls into the “not like other girls” category, given that all the other princesses are apparently blonde, blue eyed, and waifish. This is not a problem for me as Cimorene doesn’t exude that “not like other girls” aura… if that makes sense.
Morwen, though not featured heavily in this book, is witchy life goals. I would like nothing more than to live in a secluded house with a ton of cats… and internet, which does not exist in that world so… whatever. I really like Morwen.
I like the way the world-building is done, first through the narration and then through Cimorene learning while doing her Dragon Princess duties. I’m definitely in love with the entire way the fairy tale world is fleshed out. All the fairies, dragons, giants, etc. existing and coexisting somehow. Chef’s kiss. Actually quite glad none of it is overly delved into, because I also have a feeling there’s a very real dark side to all this… but Dealing with Dragons isn’t that kind of book.
I’ve largely run out of things to say about Dealing with Dragons. I feel like it’s a really good book that stands the test of time. Prefect for the younger generations and still enjoyable for rereading as an adult.
Favorite Lines
"I didn't ask what you'd said about it," the frog snapped. "I asked what you're going to do. Nine times out of ten, talking is a way of avoiding doing things."
"No soapsuds! It's demeaning." - Zemenar
"It certainly does," the escort dragon said. "It said all, and I meant all. If I'd meant 'all the humans,' I'd have said 'all the humans,' or maybe 'some of you' or 'you over there' or 'all you non-dragons' or --" - Frax
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