The fire-breathing girl
Giulia Binando Melis
La bambina sputafuoco
Garzanti
Synopsis
My name is Mina and I like many things: dandelions, canned tuna, books, ricotta, fireflies, and especially dragons, and the flames that come out of their mouths. No one kills dragons; they're incredibly strong, and that's why I feel like one of them. In fact, the first time I saw Lorenzo, I wasn't even scared. He was furious, screaming loudly, and glaring at me. But I know he was just really angry, like me. We don't like being here at all, and that was a great reason for us to become friends. We're serious together. We're two really bad guys, and everyone runs away from us, even fear. Our world has the rules we've decided: there are monsters in lakes, gnomes waiting for their magic diploma, drops of water that become fantastic animals, and werewolves that really exist. We don't listen to anyone who doesn't believe us, because despite what adults say, this isn't imagination. This is reality. The best way to perfect our secret plan. A perfect escape plan. Because Lorenzo and I have to escape. Get away from the hospital where we've been living for too long and reach the world outside. Because when we see the sky again, everything will change. Because when we're together, no one can beat us.
Some debut novels resonate in the hearts of those who read them for a long time. This is true for The Girl Who Spits Fire. We are Mina when we listen to the child within us. When we let our imagination guide us. When we trust a true friendship that doesn't make us feel alone. Based on the author's experience, it's a novel that teaches how the power of imagination can always get us out of trouble.
Reviews
Caterina Peano
De Amicis High School of Cuneo, class 3H
I really enjoyed the plot and the consistently detailed descriptions. I was swept away by the strength of the protagonist and the consistently distinct personalities of each character. The only difficulty I encountered while reading was the constant use of memories and flashbacks. They enrich the story and make it more engaging, but at times they create a bit of confusion.
Iris Lavalle
De Amicis High School of Cuneo, class 3H
The plot is very interesting, and the themes it addresses are well explored and adequately explained. The author's writing style is fluid and engaging. The characters are well-defined: each has a distinct personality, and as you read, you get to know them in depth. The ending is a bit confusing, but still understandable.
Chiara Comba
De Amicis High School in Cuneo, class 2H
I enjoyed the book above all because it's a smooth and enjoyable read. The author writes about the little girl who still lives inside her. I enjoyed the direct dialogue that flows naturally into the narrative. The central theme is the friendship that develops between Mina and Lorenzo within the hospital walls; together, they manage to face that place that can seem frightening.
Francesca Gerardo
De Amicis High School of Cuneo, class 3H
I found this book sweet and tender, handling delicate themes with precision and lightness. However, in some parts it was a bit slow and a bit repetitive.
Silvia Argilosa
De Amicis High School of Cuneo, class 3H
It's not the kind of book I usually read, but the writing style is very simple and flowing. The author takes a child's point of view, free from the negative influences of adults. The simplicity and sweetness of the narrative are disarming and the book's strong point.
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