95 pages • 3 hours read
The Girl Who Drank the Moon
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Book Brief
400
Novel • Fiction
Protectorate • Fantasy World
2016
Middle grade
10-14 years
640L
Super Short Summary
The Girl Who Drank the Moon by Kelly Barnhill tells the story of Luna, a girl accidentally enmagicked with moonlight as a baby, who grows up in a magical forest raised by a kind witch named Xan, a swamp monster, and a tiny dragon. As Luna matures, she grapples with recovering her lost memories and understanding her magical abilities, while facing the oppressive tyranny of the leaders in her hometown, the Protectorate.
Fantastical
Mysterious
Emotional
Contemplative
Bittersweet
Reviews & Readership
131,258 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
The Girl Who Drank the Moon by Kelly Barnhill enchants with its lyrical prose and imaginative storytelling. Praised for its strong characters and rich themes of love and sacrifice, it captivates young and mature readers alike. Some critics, however, find its pacing uneven. Overall, it’s a spellbinding tale that sparks curiosity and wonder.
Who Should Read The Girl Who Drank the Moon?
Readers captivated by enchanting tales of magic and mystery akin to The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman or the heartfelt wonder found in The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern will delight in The Girl Who Drank the Moon. Ideal for middle-grade to young adult readers who cherish whimsical, richly imagined worlds.
131,258 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Xan
Xan
An elderly witch residing in the woods, Xan has a nurturing and kind nature. She cares for abandoned babies, including Luna, and uses her magic to help others. Xan aims to protect Luna, even keeping her magic a secret.
Glerk
Glerk
A wise and caring swamp monster who lives with Xan and Fyrian, Glerk is deeply connected to the world around him. He loves poetry and educates Luna in language. Though imposing in appearance, Glerk is gentle and deeply values truth.
Fyrian
Fyrian
A small, joyful dragon who believes he is a mighty giant, Fyrian is Luna's friend and companion. Despite his size, he holds big dreams and an optimistic outlook on life.
Antain
Antain
Initially an Elder-in-Training, Antain struggles with the responsibilities and moral implications of his role. He is a skilled woodworker who questions the practices of the Protectorate, seeking change.
400
Novel • Fiction
Protectorate • Fantasy World
2016
Middle grade
10-14 years
640L
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