Dealing with Dragons

Princess Cimorene flees her conventional royal life to become a dragon's princess, defying expectations for proper princesses. She volunteers to serve the dragon Kazul, taking on duties like organizing treasures and cooking cherries jubilee. In the dragon caves, Cimorene finds the independence and adventure she seeks, but must constantly turn away would-be rescuers who assume she needs saving. As she settles into her new role, she discovers tensions between the dragons and a group of wizards who pose a threat to the dragon territories. The novel features magic, dragons, princesses, and wizards in a fantasy world where traditional fairy tale rules exist but can be broken. Cimorene navigates this world alongside other unconventional characters while uncovering magical mysteries. This middle-grade fantasy challenges gender roles and fairy tale conventions through a protagonist who chooses her own path. The story emphasizes the value of practical knowledge and the importance of questioning societal expectations.

Readers celebrate this book's reversal of fairy tale tropes and its independent female protagonist who rejects traditional princess roles. Many reviewers note the humor and witty dialogue, with one calling it "a perfect blend of dragons, magic, and sarcasm." Parents and teachers report the book resonates with middle-grade readers aged 9-13, though adult readers also express enjoyment. Multiple reviews highlight the clear writing style and fast pacing. Common criticisms include predictable plot elements and character development that some found too simplistic. A few readers wanted more world-building depth. Ratings: Goodreads: 4.14/5 (82,000+ ratings) Amazon: 4.7/5 (1,200+ ratings) Common Sense Media: 5/5 (parent reviews), 4/5 (kid reviews) Representative review: "Fun and refreshing take on princess stories. The protagonist shows girls they can choose their own path. Some plot points felt obvious, but the humor makes up for it." - Goodreads reviewer

The Two Princesses of Bamarre by Gail Carson Levine A princess goes on a quest to save her sister from illness and discovers her own strength in a world of magic, dragons, and mythical creatures.

Dragon Slippers by Jessica Day George A girl forms a business partnership with dragons while unraveling political plots in a kingdom where dragons are misunderstood.

The Enchanted Forest Chronicles by Patricia C. Wrede A continuation in the same world as Dealing with Dragons follows Princess Daystar on new adventures with dragons and magic.

Dragon's Milk by Susan Fletcher A girl becomes a foster mother to baby dragons and must protect them from dragon hunters while navigating a medieval fantasy world.

Dragon's Blood by Jane Yolen A bond forms between a slave boy and a dragon in a world where dragons are bred and trained for fighting.

🔹 The Enchanted Forest Chronicles, which begins with Dealing with Dragons, was partially inspired by Wrede's frustration with traditional fairy tale princesses who lacked agency in their own stories. 🔹 Dragons in this series prefer Latin names and keep extensive libraries, reflecting Wrede's background as a former financial analyst who valued organization and precision. 🔹 The book was first published in 1990 and went on to win several awards, including the Minnesota Book Award and being named an ALA Notable Book for Children. 🔹 The protagonist's name, Cimorene, was created by Wrede by combining elements of both Greek and Latin roots to give it an exotic yet classical feel. 🔹 Each dragon in the series has their own unique recipe for cherries jubilee - a detail Wrede included after researching historical dessert recipes from the Victorian era.