Girls Want to Slay Dragons Too!

Hereville: How Mirka Got Her Sword by Barry Deutsch

The description offered on the cover of the book says it all: 

"Yet Another Troll-Fighting 11-Year-Old Orthodox Jewish Girl"

This book was an eye-opener for me on many levels.  To start with, I've not read many graphic novels, especially those written for girls.  I'm also not a big reader of fantasy.  Deutsch offered me an inside view of the Orthodox Jewish lifestyle.  

One of my favorite things about this book is that it promoted old fashioned family values like being home in time for dinner, helping around the house, and learning crafts from elders.  

Mirka is a young lady who is often hindered in her pursuit of becoming a dragon slayer because she must deal with the loss of her mother, the acceptance of her stepmother, the strong views of her religion and siblings, as well as school and peer pressure.  As the story unfolds, she manages to come to terms with all she is facing thanks to her self confidence, the support of her family, her beliefs, and her ability to win an argument.

While I don't think this book will appeal to large masses of young readers, I do believe it will appeal to the insightful, analytical, adventure seeking young person who enjoys a peek into the life of another young person and culture.  

Hats off to Amulet Books (Publisher of Diary of a Wimpy Kid) for taking on a less popular type of diary for young people. 

As far as lesson ideas for this book goes, I say simply make it available for young people to enjoy.  On a more academic note, it serves as wonderful clear and humorous view of Orthodox Judaism if studying cultures or religions.  

Hereville is a fairly fun and easy read.  Check it out and keep an eye open for a young person who can appreciate all this book has to offer.  May it lead to an inspiring and quality discussion of life and dreams.