‘Wolf Siren’ by Beth O’Brien: Feminist retelling of a classic children’s tale
Beth O’Brien’s ‘Wolf Siren’ offers a bold retelling of the classic ‘Little Red Riding Hood’ tale. Far from the simple childhood version, this novel transforms the story into a powerful journey of self-discovery, resistance, and feminine empowerment. Through poetic language and a fresh point of view, O’Brien explores deep themes of identity, oppression, and inner strength.
The novel is set in a remote village surrounded by a mysterious forest. The villagers live in fear of this forest, especially the men, who are forbidden from entering because of the threat of wolves. Life in the village is strict and controlled. People speak in whispers and follow rules passed down through stories meant to keep them in line.
At the centre of the story is Red, a blind girl who begins to question everything she has been taught. Her decision to enter the forest — a place that represents fear, danger, and the unknown — marks the beginning of a life-changing journey. Red’s choice not only challenges the village’s long-standing beliefs but also begins to unravel its secrets.
In this world, women are expected to stay within narrow roles, silent and obedient. Red’s act of stepping into the forest is symbolic — a rejection of these limits and a step towards truth and freedom. As she travels deeper into the woods, she learns that the stories meant to scare her are only part of the truth. What the village calls “wild” or “dangerous” is often simply powerful, untamed, and feminine.
The forest becomes more than just a setting — it is a space of transformation, almost a living force. It represents all that society tries to keep hidden: female strength, freedom and instinct. Red’s journey through it mirrors the path many women take when stepping outside the roles that society has forced on them. Red’s blindness is portrayed in a unique and empowering way. It gives her a different kind of vision, one that is inward, sharp and insightful. She notices what others overlook and is able to understand things in ways that others cannot. Her disability becomes a source of strength, showing readers that power doesn’t always come in expected forms.
O’Brien’s writing is rich and lyrical, but always grounded in Red’s clear and determined voice. Through Red, we experience a world full of danger, mystery and hope. The novel encourages readers to question the stories they’ve been told and to look beyond fear to find truth.
‘Wolf Siren’ is not just a reimagined fairy tale, it is a universal story about reclaiming voice and identity. It speaks to any culture where women are told to be quiet, stay small, or hide their strength. This novel will stay with readers long after the final page.
— The reviewer is a freelance contributor
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