Beth O’Brien, Wolf Siren, Harper Collins Children’s Books, April 2025, 320 pp., RRP $17.99 (pbk), ISBN 9780008642013
They’ve had to fight to survive, like women. And some people would call that dangerous.
The cover art informs the reader before they open the book that this is a retelling of Little Red Riding Hood. And what an absolute delight it is!
From the first page, I knew this book was not going to disappoint. As Red, our protagonist, treads carefully in the woods, a gnarled branch reached down and tapped her shoulder. We learn that she has never been able to see well, and the trees seem to know this and will often draw her attention to things she might otherwise miss. So, by page two, we know so much: we know Red is drawn to the forest where she feels at home, that she is sight-impaired and that the forest is magical.
There are wolves in the forest, and many of the men from the village have been killed. The wolves, however, do not attack the women. The village has a high wall around it to protect it – well that’s what the mayor tells the villagers, but is it true? Are the wolves really to be feared? Or is this superstitious fear a way for some in the village to have control over the rest?
The story is atmospheric and magical, with wild nature taking centre stage. Red is a brave and compassionate protagonist. She sees injustice, and is not afraid to stand up to the perpetrators. Actually, that’s not true; she is very afraid, but stands up to them nevertheless. Although visually impaired, she doesn’t let this stop her from being her true self. The strength and power of women, supporting each other, is a strong central theme. The book also refreshingly discusses the onset of menstruation and the pain, discomfort and inconvenience that accompanies it – hooray!
Beth O’Brien has written a novel that explores the power of the feminine by skillfully subverting familiar fairytale tropes. It’s hard to believe this is her debut novel. This book is a triumph!
Highly recommended for readers aged 9+.
Reviewed by Heather Gallagher
