The Magic of Connection: A Heartfelt Review of The Girl Who Drank the Moon
As a mom, I cherish those rare quiet evenings when the chaos subsides and the world morphs into a sanctuary of story. Just the other night, nestled in bed with my two kids, I reached for The Girl Who Drank the Moon by Kelly Barnhill. With its Newbery Medal accolades and enchanting cover, I was hopeful this would become a new staple in our bedtime reading routine. Little did I know how deeply it would resonate with all of us.
In this captivating tale, Barnhill invites us into the world of the Protectorate, where every year, a baby is sacrificed to a misunderstood witch named Xan, who lives in the heart of a forbidden forest. But Xan isn’t the villain of the story; instead, she’s a kind soul who rescues the abandoned babies, nourishing them with starlight. However, when she accidentally feeds one of them—Luna—moonlight instead, a cascade of magic and danger begins to unfold. As Luna approaches her thirteenth birthday, her potent magic becomes increasingly unpredictable, intertwining her fate with those around her.
What I found most delightful was how my children engaged with the characters. My daughter gasped every time Xan appeared, her eyes filling with wonder, while my son was captivated by the tiny dragon, Fyrian, who stole the show with his playful antics. We laughed together, especially at Fyrian’s hilarious moments, but there were also poignant scenes that made us pause—like when Luna realized her power was both a gift and a heavy burden. My little ones giggled and then fell silent, contemplating the weight of that duality, a reflection of our own lives where love and responsibility often intertwine.
Barnhill’s writing is like a warm blanket; it’s both lyrical and accessible, drawing us into a rich world brimming with magic and valuable life lessons. The illustrations, while not a primary focus in the text, echo the story’s enchanting essence, enhancing the whimsy in our imaginations. It was delightful to see my children’s faces light up as they tried to visualize the fantastical elements, like the wise Swamp Monster and the looming volcano.
One particularly memorable moment came when Luna stumbled upon her own fears and insecurities. My son leaned in closer to me and whispered, “Mom, do we all have magic inside us?” I chuckled, reflecting on how this story had sparked a conversation about our own potential and feelings. Those questions, those moments of connection, are the essence of what I seek in our reading journey.
The Girl Who Drank the Moon isn’t just a story; it’s an exploration of love, sacrifice, and bravery nestled within a tale of witches and magic. I would recommend it for ages 8 and up, especially for those kids with imaginative minds who enjoy tales that challenge perspectives about good and evil, love and loss. Whether read aloud or independently, this book is a treasure.
In our home, it has already solidified its place as a family favorite. I’m grateful to Barnhill for crafting a story that not only captivates my children but also resonates with me on a personal level—it reminds me of the vital importance of love and understanding, lessons I aim to impart as their mom.
So, whether you’re searching for a cozy bedtime read or an imaginative tale that bridges generations, I can wholeheartedly assure you, The Girl Who Drank the Moon will leave your little ones enchanted—and perhaps, a little more in touch with their own magic.
