Review of The Night Fairy by Laura Amy Schlitz
As an avid book lover and blogger, I have a special place in my heart for stories that transport me to enchanting worlds, and Laura Amy Schlitz’s The Night Fairy certainly fits the bill. When I stumbled upon this gem, I was instantly drawn to its whimsical premise: what happens to a tiny fairy when she loses her wings? The unique twist of a night fairy—Flory—struggling to survive in a big, dangerous world captivated my imagination.
Flory’s journey begins when a misunderstanding with a sleepy bat leaves her wingless, thrusting her into a world she’s not prepared for. What I found delightful about Flory was her fierce determination and resilience. She evolves from a timid night fairy into a resourceful one, navigating the perils of her surroundings with a blend of stubbornness and ingenuity. This transformation is not just about survival but also about self-discovery and forging connections, quite aptly reflected in her interactions with Skuggle, an endearingly food-driven squirrel. Their relationship is rooted in humor, often leading to laugh-out-loud moments that make the narrative even more engaging.
The themes of friendship, courage, and the stark realities of nature resonate throughout the book. Schlitz crafts a vivid and lyrical landscape; her prose sparkles with imagery that takes young readers on a sensory journey. For instance, she describes Flory’s eyes as “sparkled like blackberries under dew”—such delightful details make the narrative blossom with color and life. The balance of sweetness and occasional darkness gives this story layers, making it suitable for children ready to explore a bit more complexity in their fairy tales.
In terms of writing style, Schlitz’s narrative voice felt warm and inviting, though sometimes I sensed a slight disconnection from Flory’s fairy perspective. The omniscient narration, while accessible, occasionally felt too adult for a child-focused tale. Still, this slight hiccup did not overshadow the beautiful storytelling. The pacing is well-crafted; each chapter flows seamlessly, making it hard to put the book down once you start.
The illustrations by Angela Barrett are nothing short of breathtaking. They add an extra dimension to the reading experience, where each image feels like a beautifully painted window into Flory’s world. I found myself eagerly anticipating the illustrations, as they often encapsulated the moods and emotions of the scenes perfectly.
The Night Fairy is a tale I would recommend for children aged 5 to 9, but I believe readers of all ages can appreciate its magic—especially those who love a good adventure with a sprinkle of peril. It’s perfect for read-aloud sessions, as families can explore themes of resilience, identity, and the often harsh realities of nature together.
In conclusion, reading The Night Fairy was not just a delightful experience; it was a poignant reminder of our ability to navigate through life’s challenges, no matter how great they may seem. Flory’s story will certainly stay with me as a gentle nudge toward finding strength within, inspiring children—and even adults—to embrace their own adventures, no matter how fraught with obstacles they may be. If you’re seeking a beautifully illustrated, thought-provoking fairy tale, you won’t want to miss this treasure.