Mirka has always wanted to fight monsters, but there don’t seem to be any in her enclosed Orthodox Jewish community, Hereville. Instead she leads a fairly ordinary life: learning to knit and debate from her stepmother, fighting the bullies that pick on her younger brother, and hanging out with her many sisters. All that changes when she discovers the witch’s house and steals a grape from her vine. Soon a talking pig is harassing Mirka, but instead of being unhappy about this change, Mirka is now more determined to find a sword and start her dragon slaying adventures.
Deutsch’s illustration vividly capture the everyday aspects of Mirka’s community, with an attention to detail that brings both the community and Mirka’s family vividly to life. Mirka is a spunky heroine who faces challenges and learns from her mistakes, as well as from her family. This coming-of-age adventure is a fun, moving read.
Reviewed by Melendra
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