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Reviewed by Carine Engelbrecht for Readers' Favorite
From humble beginnings as former slaves, the human population of Oasis has built a progressive society. This, however, comes at a price, as the ideal dictates keeping emotion on an unbearably short leash and other sentient life is dismissed as either evil or pests. The situation is particularly painful and perilous for Serazina, a young empath who struggles to keep undesirable feelings in check. When a chance incident causes her path to cross that of the Guardian, Phileas, the situation complicates even further. Meanwhile, the animals observe human isolation and expansion with alarm and concern, as it appears to lead to large-scale destruction. Two creatures in particular are charged with ringing in a new era of greater connection. Druid the water dragon is the heart and soul of the swamp, but it is Tara, a kitten with a special mission, who is led to initiate an uneasy bridge between the human and animal world. First, however, certain fears and misconceptions have to be faced and challenged.
Big Dragons Don't Cry by C.M. Barrett combines a fascinating array of voices, both human and non-human to tell of a search for oneness. The quest is not limited to physical locations, but also includes an exploration of the uneasier territory of feeling and emotion. I found the exploits and motivations of the animal characters particularly compelling and recommend this book to anyone who loves nature in general and animals in particular. The story has a deeper message of reconnecting with the environment, for the greater good of all. There is a guideline at the beginning of the story, which is helpful in understanding some of the finer points of Oasis and its complex society.
