The Wood at Midwinter

The Wood at Midwinter by Susanna Clarke follows nineteen-year-old Merowdis Scot through the woods. She talks to trees and animals and is happiest when in the woods. On a snowy night, she meets a stranger in the woods and a wish she makes there will change her life forever.

This is a pleasant midwinter read, chuck full of fairies and magic. Set in the same world as Clarke’s popular work, Jonathan Strange and Mr. Norrell, this is a place where animals can converse and where young women can speak to trees. Merowdis’ story brings its own kind of distinct seasonal magic, intermingling the real and the fae. While short, this volume overflows with imagination and lyrical storytelling.

This beautifully illustrated short story will elicit gasps from readers, young and old. (My daughter read over my shoulder and exclaimed over every page.) A winter story readers will be eager to revisit year after year, this book makes a beautiful gift for others or for your own enjoyment. The Wood at Midwinter is a little bit of midwinter magic to brighten the dark days.