Tuesday, May 19, 2020

Dealing With Dragons by Patricia Wrede


Princess Cimorene has a problem.  Her problem is that she doesn't like being a princess at all.  She wants to learn magic or fencing or advanced mathematics.  She doesn't want to learn to sew or make conversation with strangers or any of the usual princess things.  The main issue is that she has no desire to marry a prince and become a queen.  It seems totally boring to her.

When her parents take her on a visit to a neighboring kingdom, it turns out that it is a prenuptial visit and plans are in place for her to marry the kingdom's prince in three weeks.  The prince is nice enough but boring to Cimorene.  Unable to think of any way to stop the marriage, she runs away to look for a dragon.

Soon she finds the dragons' area and volunteers to become one of their servants.  Kazul, one of the most powerful dragons, takes her up on her offer.  Soon Cimorene is happily organizing the dragon's lair, learning about potions and cooking to her heart's content.  Her only problem is discouraging princes who show up periodically to offer to fight the dragon and free her.

When Cimorene, her friend Alianora and Kazul uncover a plot that threatens all the dragons, it taxes Cimorene's abilities.  Wizards are encroaching on the dragon's territory and it soon becomes apparent that they are up to no good.  Can the evil wizards be stopped in time?

This is a children's book about princesses and dragons.  That age group should enjoy this tale, especially young women.  It shows that one need not meet society's expectations in order to live a happy, fulfilled life.  There are others in this Patricia Wrede series if this one was appealing.  This book is recommended for young readers.

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