Review by Lexie, Thomas Telford School
The novel is set in 1933 Wisconsin and is centred around the movement when women were transforming from small people who aren’t heard to powerful individuals who are looking forward to the difference they make in society. Reading this novel by Kelly Barnhill, I feel I have developed my knowledge of the feelings of women at the time when they had a lack of rights and feel I can move forward with a range of influences for my work that the author has provided.

In my opinion I have found a particular attraction to the character of Aunt Marla. This is because she can be seen as a character that the protagonist Alex can look up to as well as being presented as a strong-minded character that no one can change. However, I didn’t particularly have an attraction the Alex’s new stepmother as she restricts Alex and doesn’t allow her to flourish. This can be evidenced by the fact that the protagonist kept secret sketchbooks.

As previously mentioned, Barnhill has influenced me to explore more challenging and mature topics in my own writing to develop my ability to write with a specific voice when adopted. I would recommend the book to those who have an interest in history but specifically women’s history and how people’s experiences differ. Not only this but I would also recommend this novel to those who like a fantasy story as it explores ideas such as the extended metaphor of women being dragons.

Review by Emily, Bristol Hospital Education Service
The book ‘When Women Were Dragons’ is a marvellous book about feminism set in 1950’s America. A feminist historical fantasy book tackling self-discovery, bizarre identity, and dysfunctional family.

The main character in this story is called Alexandra (though she prefers to be called Alex). She is a hardworking, intelligent, and caring young woman. I like Alex in this book because she takes care of her younger cousin/sister and loves and cares for her like a mother ever since her own mother, Bertha, died. 

Alex much like her mother is very intelligent especially when it comes to maths. Alex is just like a mini me version of Bertha. 

However, the same cannot be said about Alex’s father. Alex is the only child of an absentee father who left Alex to fend for herself after her mother died and her father married a new woman who also is not a very likeable character. I don't like Alex’s father because he is rude, judgemental and over all quite sexist. 

I also adore Alex’s younger cousin/sister, Beatrice. Beatrice is a carefree, fun loving, spontaneous child who won’t allow people to crush her spirit or hide who she is very easily. For me personally, Beatrice is my comfort character because although she is crazy and impulsive at times, she can also be calm and comforting. She is the comic relief, and she never ceases to make me laugh. 

The plot of the story is extremely addicting. I found myself not able to put the book down for hours on end. I just had to find out what happened after the next chapter and the next chapter. 

I would definitely recommend this book to all young adult readers because it is very empowering, and it definitely made me want to learn more about women’s life during the 1950’s in America. It is a very educational book even though it is a fantasy novel and I think that the author, Kelly Barnhill does an incredible way of showing that in her writing. 

Overall, I would give this book 10 dragons out of 10. Would read again.