The Snow Child by Eowyn Ivey is one of those books that you just know will completely bewitch you. As such, I decided to put off reading it until I had enough time to spare when I could let it consume me. Two days was all I needed to set aside, I devoured it in it's entirety within just 48 hours.
I was so glad that I saved this book for my trip to Sweden. Having spent the day wading through thigh deep snow in only the half-light of the afternoon it was an absolute delight to curl up in bed and read this beautiful tale of an elderly couple living in the magical state of Alaska.
The couple, Jack and Mabel live on an Alaskan farm, where they are building a new life after the tragedy of not being able to conceive a child. One frosty evening the first snow begins to fall. Together, Mabel and her husband, who have been drifting apart, build a little snow girl together. This first snow not only brings them closer together but it also leads to the mysterious appearance of a wild young girl, who we begin to glimpse peeping through the trees and leaving gifts of animal pelts and berries.
Just moments into the first description of the girl I was reminded of this picture. Her delicate skin, fair hair and bright blue eyes are described with such clarity that even after you've finished the book, you can still conjure her up in your mind at will.
I'm not going to reveal any more about the storyline because I'd like you to be surprised throughout the entire tale. If you like magical landscapes, endearing and relatable characters, stories of hope, love and determination, then I can whole-heartedly guarantee that you will adore this book. It is so hauntingly beautiful at the same time as being so carefully and delicately written. The only criticism I could possibly make is that it didn't last forever.
Have you been enchanted recently? Which book do you find it impossible to put down?
Have a beautiful weekend my dearests!
the little nordic cabin
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