Weekend Reads: The Girl Who Drank the Moon is a spellbinding journey of self discovery

Let me tell you about this incredible book I just finished reading—The Girl Who Drank the Moon by Kelly Barnhill. Seriously, it's like stepping into a magical world where your imagination runs wild and your heart races with every page.

First things first, let's talk about the characters. Luna, our brave and enchanting protagonist, is a young girl who's destined for greatness. But here's the kicker: she doesn't even know it! Raised by a kind and quirky witch named Xan, Luna possesses incredible magic powers that she's completely unaware of. It's like watching a flower bloom in slow motion as Luna discovers her true potential. You can't help but root for her every step of the way.

Now, let's talk about Xan. This witch is an absolute hoot! She's a mix of kindness, eccentricity, and an unruly broomstick. Xan's relationship with Luna is just heartwarming.

She cares for Luna as if she were her own child, protecting her from the mysterious magic that surrounds their world. And then there's Glerk, a gentle giant and Xan's wise, poetic, and loyal sidekick. This trio is like the dream team, and their bond is truly something special.

Emotionally invested in the journey

But wait, there's more! There's a whole cast of fascinating characters in this book. From Fyrian, the lovable and mischievous tiny dragon with a knack for accidentally setting things on fire, to Antain, a young man torn between his duty and his heart's desire, each character brings something unique to the table. You can't help but get emotionally invested in their journeys and cheer them on as they face their own personal battles.

It's a whirlwind of adventure, mystery, and jaw-dropping revelations. The story revolves around an ancient tradition where the people of the Protectorate sacrifice a baby to the wicked witch in the forest every year. But things take a thrilling turn when Xan accidentally feeds Luna moonlight instead of starlight, and that's when the real magic begins.

As Luna's powers grow, secrets are unveiled, and the true nature of the world they live in is revealed. It's a rollercoaster ride of emotions that keeps you flipping pages faster than you can say "abracadabra."

Barnhill's writing style is pure magic itself. It's lyrical, poetic, and utterly captivating. She weaves a tale that feels both timeless and contemporary, making you laugh, cry, and ponder the deeper meaning behind the story.

Her descriptions are vivid, painting a picture in your mind that feels as real as if you were standing right there in the enchanted forest or witnessing the breathtaking magical feats.

The themes explored in this book are deep and thought-provoking. It delves into the power of love, sacrifice, and the courage to challenge the status quo. It's a reminder that we all have untapped potential within us and that sometimes the most extraordinary things can come from the most ordinary people.

If you're looking for a book that will transport you to a world of wonder, where magic thrives, and where the strength of the human spirit prevails, then The Girl Who Drank the Moon is an absolute must-read.

It's a beautifully crafted tale that will leave you spellbound and longing for more. Trust me, you won't be able to put it down once you start. Happy reading!

Ahmad Nazir is a UAE-based freelancer writer