What Makes The Snow Child the Ultimate Winter Read

I just finished The Snow Child and couldn’t stop thinking about its characters and their beautiful and heartbreaking story. CLICK HERE for the book (this is an affiliate link).

About The Snow Child by Eowyn Ivey

Set in 1920s Alaska, The Snow Child follows Jack and Mabel, a childless couple who build a snow girl during the first snowfall. Soon after, a mysterious girl, Faina, appears in their lives. Blending the harsh realities of frontier life with folklore, this hauntingly beautiful tale explores love, loss, and humanity’s connection to nature.

Why The Snow Child Resonated With Me

One of the most poignant themes for me was the ebb and flow of Jack and Mabel’s relationship. Jack and Mabel shared the weight of a deep, mutual grief, but they navigated it in completely different ways. Their contrasting approaches often added strain to their marriage, making their relationship both challenging and deeply human. I saw so much of myself in Mabel as she worked through her grief. It was hard to read at times, but Eowyn Ivey beautifully captured how married couples navigate life’s hardest phases—and the beauty in that journey.

I was captivated by the magical elements in this story. Is Faina real, or just imagined? Eowyn Ivey masterfully blurs reality and fantasy, creating a fairytale-like atmosphere that keeps you wondering. This story pulls you in and leaves you questioning what’s real long after you finish reading.

Who Should Read The Snow Child?

This book delves into themes of grief, loss, infertility, survival, and includes moments of emotional intensity (a solid PG-13). While not explicit, some scenes may feel too mature for younger readers.*see note below

If you’re looking for a light beach read, this probably isn’t the book for you. If you’re looking for a book that comforts you in grief or gives you all the feels, this might be the book for you. For me, it was the perfect book to read during the cold winter months. Truly one of the best books to read in winter.

Favorite Quotes from The Snow Child

• “In my old age, I see that life itself is often more fantastic and terrible than the stories we believed as children, and that perhaps there is no harm in finding magic among the trees.”
• “And yet, what Ada had written about joy was entirely true. When she stands before you with her long, naked limbs and her mysterious smile, you must embrace her while you can”.

Have you read The Snow Child? Share your thoughts in the comments below! And if you have similar book recommendations, let me know—I’m always looking for more great reads.

XO -emma

*This review reflects personal perspectives and preferences, and standards for what is considered ‘clean’ or appropriate in a book can vary widely. We encourage you to conduct your own research or review to ensure the book aligns with your individual values and expectations.