Ok so let's be real, the cover art for this is really what grabbed me first, it's colourful, quirky and adorable. Secondly, the fantasy world of dreams also intrigued me, I'm typically not a "fantasy" reader but can stomach more magical realism style writings. 

Here's what I liked:
-The structure of the story, they were little novellas if you like, about the types of dreams or how an aspect of the dream world ran. It's important to note that this novel is neither character or plot driven. 
-Protagonist Penny, it wasn't so much about her but she was a good tool in which to explore the dream world, being a new employee. 
-"Dream makers" and how dreams are made. Kind of like cinema for the consumer. Plenty of food for thought and a cool avenue to explore. 
-The main message from this story was how dreams can help us in our real lives, whether it be aspirational or through processing events in our lives. Perhaps even reaching out for those who are no longer with us. It is this sentiment that I think will be the most memorable for me. 

Here's what I thought could be better: 
- Dialogue seemed very superficial. It was lacking nuance for me. 
-Character names seemed a bit disconnected, eg Penny but then Weather and Mogberry ?!?
-Concept of the Noctilucas. I was a bit confused, were these animals yet animals also came to the dream world to purchase dreams but didn't look like the Noctilucas? A few other elements like this existed in the world without too much explanation. 
-I think overall I was waiting for a moment for all the moving parts and ideas to slot together and this didn't happen. Perhaps as the story was neither plot nor character driven. 

It was certainly a cozy and memorable read nonetheless, not 100% sold on the sequel but may pick it up one day. I would love to have read this one as a book club read and I think there are so many talking points. Would also make good stimulus for a podcast! 

I purchased my copy from Harry Hartog Carindale.