The Girl Who Drank The Moon

The Girl Who Drank the Moon by Kelly Barnhill is a beautifully written, enchanting fantasy novel that blends magical realism, coming-of-age themes, and deep emotional resonance. Winner of the prestigious Newbery Medal, this novel captivates readers with its unique blend of whimsy, mystery, and moral complexity, making it an unforgettable journey into a world of wonder and magic.

Set in a land of dark secrets and ancient traditions, The Girl Who Drank the Moon begins with a mysterious and poignant premise. In a village where every year a baby is left as a sacrifice to a powerful witch, the truth is far different than the villagers expect. The witch, Zan, does not harm the babies but raises them with love, finding them worthy homes. One year, Zan accidentally feeds a baby girl, Luna, moonlight instead of starlight, imbuing her with extraordinary magical powers.

Zan decides to raise Luna as her own, but as Luna grows, she struggles to understand and control her overwhelming magic. Meanwhile, the villagers’ entrenched fear of the witch unwittingly creates a curse that threatens their world. Luna’s burgeoning magic becomes the key to unraveling the mysteries of her past and confronting the destructive power of fear.

Exploring Profound Themes

The Girl Who Drank the Moon is a beautiful exploration of love, sacrifice, and the journey of self-discovery. Barnhill’s lyrical prose emphasizes the importance of challenging antiquated beliefs and the transformative power of choosing one’s own narrative. Her writing elegantly combines the fantastical with deep philosophical insights, making this novel a truly immersive experience.

“There is no greater power in the world than love.”

— Kelly Barnhill, The Girl Who Drank the Moon

Why This Book Resonates

• Magical World-Building: Immerse yourself in a rich, imaginative world where magic is a living force, blending wonder and danger seamlessly.
• Strong Themes of Love and Sacrifice: At its core, the story celebrates love in its many forms—familial, protective, and selfless—showing how it shapes destinies.
• Complex and Relatable Characters: Follow Luna’s journey of self-discovery and connect with intricately developed characters whose emotions and motivations are deeply woven into the narrative.
• Rich, Lyrical Writing: Kelly Barnhill’s prose is poetic and vivid, bringing the story to life with a tone that is both gentle and profoundly powerful.
• Fabulous Message for All Ages: This book empowers readers to question old narratives, embrace their unique qualities, and choose their own paths.

“Barnhill’s writing is as clear and cold as a crisp winter night, while her plotting is as intricate and delicate as a spider’s web.”

— Publishers Weekly (starred review)

A used copy of this enchanting novel is available on Bookshop Near Me.