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44 pages 1 hour read

The Snow Child

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2012

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Book Brief

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Eowyn Ivey

The Snow Child

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2012
Book Details
Pages

389

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Alaska • 1920s

Theme
Publication Year

2012

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

In 1920s Alaska, a childless couple, Jack and Mabel, struggling with grief, build a snow child during the first snowfall. They are mystified when the snow child disappears, and they begin to see a mysterious girl, Faina, who visits them in winter but returns to the woods each spring. Over time, Faina's presence helps them heal, despite her ultimate disappearance. Sensitive topics include stillbirth and grief.

Mysterious

Melancholic

Bittersweet

Fantastical

Contemplative

Reviews & Readership

4.2

176,825 ratings

77%

Loved it

18%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Eowyn Ivey's The Snow Child is widely praised for its lyrical prose and evocative depiction of the Alaskan wilderness. Readers appreciate the enchanting fairy tale elements woven into a tale of grief and hope. However, some find the pacing uneven and elements of the plot predictable. Overall, it is celebrated as a magical and heartfelt debut.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Snow Child?

Fans of richly atmospheric and emotionally resonant stories will enjoy Eowyn Ivey's The Snow Child. Similar to books like The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern and The Bear and the Nightingale by Katherine Arden, it captivates readers drawn to magical realism, folklore, and the deep emotional landscapes of its characters.

4.2

176,825 ratings

77%

Loved it

18%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

Character List

Mabel

A woman grappling with profound grief after a stillborn pregnancy, who moves to Alaska with her husband seeking solace in isolation and the wilderness. Over time, she begins to heal and open her heart, confronting the impermanence of life's moments.

Mabel's husband, who supports her dream of moving to Alaska while quietly dealing with his own grief over their lost child. He is committed to making their new life a success, forming strong bonds with others as he navigates his emotions.

A mysterious and resilient young girl who appears to be adapted to the harsh wilderness and strikes a deep connection with Mabel and Jack. Her presence leads to significant personal growth for both.

A young man who finds solace in nature, similar to Faina, and becomes deeply involved in the lives of the main characters. His journey involves learning the balance between independence and community.

A kind and supportive couple who provide essential aid and companionship to Mabel and Jack during their frontier years. Through their actions, they embody resilience and compassion amidst the challenges of wilderness life.

Book Details
Pages

389

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Alaska • 1920s

Theme
Publication Year

2012

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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