Review: Barbie: Dreamscape by Alex Aster

There is something quite lovely about a fantasy novel featuring Barbie. Although this one is marketed as young adult and a coming of age novel, the novel is very innocent, and perfect for readers who are just beginning to transition from middle grade but who may not yet be ready just yet for some of the darker parts of YA fantasy. Also, it makes for near perfect escapism for anyone who has fond memories of Barbie.

In the novel, Barbie has grown up in a boarding school in Heartland, a mythical land where there is lots of pink, everything is perfect and she, along with her classmates studies hard. Barbie adores her guardian Robin, the best friend of her mother who died when she was just a baby. She is also looking forward to graduation, where mythical beings, known as fates, will decide on her future career. 

Then the unthinkable happens. Barbie is the first student from the academy not to have a fate. Something is not right, and against the wishes of her guardian she embarks on a dangerous journey to put things right with the fates, only to cross lands and discover a surprising truth. And a betrayal.

This was a fun read, with a strong focus on the female characters and friendships. Things never get too scary and dangerous and as is to be expected, Barbie overcomes all odds and wins. There is lots of age-appropriate fun and adventure to be had. However, readers who go in expecting something akin to an adult romantasy novel or something on the higher end of YA may find themselves sorely disappointed. My advice is to just enjoy the escapism and roll with it. Or if you can't do that, just smile and let the kids enjoy it for what it is.

Recommended.

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