Book Review: Dragonfly Girl by Marti Leimbach
When I first stumbled upon Dragonfly Girl, I was immediately intrigued by the blend of young adult and adult themes wrapped within a sci-fi and spy thriller. Marti Leimbach, an author known for her adult fiction, ventures into the YA world with this captivating tale, and I couldn’t resist diving in. As someone who cherishes stories featuring strong female characters, especially in STEM fields, I was excited to see how Kira Adams would navigate her tumultuous world.
At its heart, Dragonfly Girl centers around Kira, a brilliant seventeen-year-old struggling to fit into a world that seems hell-bent on belittling her intelligence. Balancing her mother’s battle with cancer and the financial uncertainty that looms over them, Kira’s journey is both poignant and exhilarating. She’s a unique blend of tenacity and vulnerability—qualities that make her both relatable and inspiring. Her secret scientific work and her bravery in entering a prestigious competition lead her to Stockholm, where the story truly takes off.
Leimbach’s writing style is engaging; she draws readers in with vivid descriptions that let us almost feel the brisk Swedish air and the excitement of Kira’s first trip abroad. The exotic backdrop adds an alluring layer to the narrative, making the reader long to explore Stockholm alongside Kira. I found myself riveted by the moments where Kira dives into the science of dragonflies—there’s a remarkable authenticity in how she navigates the stark nuances of lab work and research, particularly the striking bit about reanimating a rat, which adds a curious and somewhat macabre twist to the storyline.
However, as much as I revered Kira’s character and her STEM journey, I did find myself grappling with the book’s pacing and tonal shifts. The story unfolds in three distinct sections, each with a dramatically different atmosphere. The first third feels almost comedic as Kira tries to blend in at a conference where she’s clearly the underdog. Yet, when the narrative shifts into a darker, more thrilling realm, it left me a little disoriented. These abrupt changes, while exciting, sometimes felt like whiplash, creating a disconnect rather than a natural progression in Kira’s journey.
With Kira being only seventeen, I struggled with the narrative’s implications, particularly in the romantic subplot that includes characters well into their twenties. This dynamic felt a bit off in a story meant to celebrate youthful brilliance, and I couldn’t help but feel uneasy about the relationships developing under such circumstances. While the romance isn’t the focal point, it’s hard to ignore its presence amidst Kira’s significant challenges.
Despite these reservations, I found Dragonfly Girl to be one of the most refreshing YA reads in recent memory. This book is a treasure trove for anyone who is passionate about science, eager to see strong female leads, or looking for a fast-paced read with unexpected twists. Leimbach’s debut in this genre promises both thrills and thought-provoking moments, making it well worth the read.
In conclusion, Dragonfly Girl will resonate particularly with young readers, educators, and those passionate about STEM fields. It’s a vibrant narrative about pushing boundaries, embracing one’s unique gifts, and the importance of resilience in the face of adversity. For me, it ignited a spark of admiration for Kira’s character, reminding me that even amid chaos, there’s beauty in chasing our passions. I can only hope this is the start of a series, as I’m eager to see where Kira’s journey will lead her next!