Psyche in a Dress is a challenging read, but it’s well worth it. The book is about the coming-of-age experiences of the teenage daughter of Hollywood royalty. As the book’s lost heroine is swallowed by the dangers that threaten any young woman alone in a deeply misogynist culture, she becomes in turn each of the heroines of the ancient underworld myths. First, she is Psyche, in the throes of her first love, then Eurydice to an indie-rock idol Orpheus, then Persephone to an abusive bad-boy Hades. As she works her way toward a personal identity independent of the men in her life, she becomes a Psyche who has gained a sense of self through her experiences and earned her place within her own story.  

The book is in free verse, and the writing is beautiful, but what really makes this novel is its treatment of the protagonist. “Psyche” is a vulnerable young woman who is given the space to make mistakes without becoming a victim. This novel includes depictions of sex, drug use, and unhealthy relationships, so reader discretion is advised. However, all these aspects make the novel’s message stronger. It’s rare to read a story about a teenage girl who makes bad, self-destructive choices, but is able to grow and move on. The ultimate message of this book is that the traumas of youth can shape who you are, but they don’t need to define you. – Krishni Burns