Inspired by a Russian fairy tale as told by Arthur Rackham this is the story of a couple who have moved to Alaska in the 1920s after losing a child. One winter's day they make a snow child on their land and soon after that an unknown girl starts appearing in the nearby woods, often accompanied by a red fox.
This is a beautifully written story of pioneering life, closely describing the difficulties of farming new land in a cold climate, hunting and trapping animals for food, the relationship that the couple form with their nearest neighbours and the unfolding story of the mysterious girl, Faina. Is Raina real or a fantasy that the couple have created from the cold winter?
Ivey really creates a magical winter atmosphere, with snowstorms and lots of winter wildlife. This is a lovely winter read.
The Snow Child by Eowyn Ivey published by Headline (2012)
Many thanks for this review, it sounds an excellent read.
ReplyDeleteAll the best Jan