Women chose to transform into dragons as it was their involuntarily decision. Most of them in the novel set free their dragons that they spress against cruelities. Means, they transform into dragons. When women were dragons explores the time of 1950s. In this time, American women had the right for voting but still all odds were not in their favor.
The protagonist of the story, Alex stays silent on this dramatic event. She deals with various challenges such as absence of her father. At the same time, her mother protectiveness increased towards her. The topic of transformation became a taboo in the society. Despite of such situation, her cousin bea becomes obsessed about this topic.
The award winning writer Kelly Barnhill, explores themes of anger, oppression of women and memory. The writer highlights the power of women when they unite. She shows picture of the world where women have limitations. The chaos arises when women claim for their rightful space.
Many annoying husbands died after transformation and disappearness, people avoid discussing the event. It is just like people do not like to talk about unpleasant things.
The story highlights the empowerment of women is that what they want to be. Alex’s aunt leaves behind her daughter, Beatrice with Alex. Her aunt revenges against the societal norm.
Alex does bringing up of her cousin on the principles of her mother. She and her mother are good at maths. Her mother choosed not to become a dragon and insists on to keep this secret. She tells Alex to claim Beatrice her actual sister.
Alex’s mother finds freedom in forgetting. Many of the people do the same. She believes not asking questions is a freedom. Unpleasant information put a burden on us.
The writer discusses all types of women from all races and ages. She also narrates about cis and trans women. Some drag performers were also part of the transformation.
The story implies the theory of intersectionality, that examines system of oppression, affecting the lives of marginalized groups. The book preaches empathy and solidarity. It is a good book to study and read.
