The Friday Review: A Hundred Magical Reasons

By Laura DeNooyer

The phrase “life is a fairy tale” can conjure up images of flowers and fairies and happily-ever-afters. But sometimes dragons lurk in those fairy tales – and the real-life dragons can be scarier than the fictional ones.

Carrie Kruisselbrink’s parents have the perfect happily-ever-after life planned out for her. She’ll graduate with a degree in elementary ed, get a job as a Christian school teacher, and marry Brian, her long-time, financially stable, parent-approved boyfriend. But her parent’s dreams for her future turn into an oppressive nightmare. When her family refuses to listen to her aspirations, Carrie flees to her grandparents, spending the summer as a companion and research assistant for the elderly Wicked Witch of the West herself, Charlotte Rose Gordon. But the lure of steady wages fades to curiosity and sympathy as Mrs. Gordon shares her story with Carrie, and the story of the man who changed her life: Wizard of Oz creator, L. Frank Baum. As the summer unwinds, fairy tales are spun, dragons are slain, and the two women share courage as they traverse their journey. But then, an unexpected revelation changes everything and the past collides with the present. Will they be able to overcome the final dragons of Lies, Shame, and Fear?

Pros: I was excited to read a split time novel juxtaposing the early 1900s with 1980. But the real treat, for me, was the Dutch heritage. The novel is set in and around Holland, Michigan and Dutch phrases, names, and mannerisms abound. The gorgeous prose reminded me of Amanda Dykes’ novels and the witty banter between characters had me laughing out loud. Set in a frame of fairy tales, the tragedies (and romances) of Charlotte Rose and Carrie felt like real-life. The way they wound together at the end created a beautiful and satisfying happily-ever-after.

Cons: If you know me, you know I’m a suspense loving adrenaline junkie when it comes to my reading habits. While the first half of the book would be a literary feast for some, for me, it dragged. Fortunately, once I crossed the halfway point, the slow build picked up to the point where I was staying up past midnight to find out what happened next. If you’re looking for a quick beach read, this is not it. 

Note: This book covers a lot of the effects of emotional abuse, particularly on children. While it is handled really well (and wasn’t a problem for me), it might be especially difficult for some – or it may be the healing tonic that is needed.

Bottom Line: This book is a must for lovers of fairy tales and Oz! (And a sweet treat for readers with a Dutch heritage!)

4.5 stars rounded up to 5 for Goodreads.