3/5 Stars: ‘Girl, Serpent, Thorn’ is a Young Adult, Fantasy by Melissa Bashardoust; ‘Girl, Serpent, Thorn’ is an alluring feminist fairy tale, and a richly metaphorical story of a teen claiming her identity and her place in the world. Bashardoust draws heavily on the ancient mythology of Persia (and includes a fascinating author’s note detailing her sources); By incorporating old and middle Persian words, we’re whisked into the world of the luxurious Golvahar. Careful readers will also find motifs from fairy tales such as ‘Sleeping Beauty,’ ‘Jack and the Beanstalk’ and ‘Rapunzel.’ The writing is lyrical and poetic; emanating an ethereal feel, without smothering the voice of the protagonist. Unfortunately, the plot is predictable and thin; meandering in places that felt rushed to produce an explosive ending.