The Snow Song by Sally Gardner

Synopsis: 'Women imprisoned by superstition, chained by guilt. Perched on a mountain in a land of ancient forests is a village, rife with secrets. Cut off from the outside world it is run by the elders, men to whom tradition is all. Edith lives alone with her alcoholic father who is forcing her to marry the village butcher. But she is in love with a shepherd who promised to return to her. As the village becomes isolated in a sea of snow, Edith loses her power of speech. And it is this enchantment that will have far-reaching consequences, not only for Edith but for the whole village.'

REVIEW

It has been quite a long time since I have read anything by Sally Gardner, around six years if I am trying to keep some sort of record. However, nothing was going to be able to prepare me for what was in store for me when reading 'The Snow Song'.

The Snow Song is one of those books which you can clearly see the message behind it and for this occasion it is crystal clear. To the point that it screams in your ear, pointing out what is clearly wrong in this society. It is heart wrenching and powerful and it is amazing to see how women are able to come together when they know something is wrong.

This is not in any shape of form for anyone younger than eighteen years-old as it deals with mature themes which can be quite hard for anyone. However, it is clear that sometimes in order to spread the message, there must be first some home truths about what society is to us and how it can be toxic.

The protagonist, Edith, is one character you can see develop from a naïve woman to a indestructible feminist who stands up for all of the women in her society. Her story is interesting and somehow you can't seem to look away from the horrors that she has to overcome and conquer. Truly she is an amazing character and Gardner does incredible work to make sure she gets the best character arc that she truly deserves.

Because of the nature of this book, the Butcher, the main antagonist throughout the story is one who Gardner paints to be terrifying not only for the characters in the book, but also the reader, where unfortunately, the Butcher's moral code can still be seen in the world today. Never have I read a book quite like this, almost singing like a tale of what used to be, what could happen and what shouldn't happen. This is a book that makes you want to read all through the night, where it tears at your soul and rebuilds it back together all in the same night.

So if I was to give any advice about this book and whether you decide to take the plunge to read it in the future all I can say is this: be prepared, you'll never be the same again.

RATING: **** (4 STARS)

WHERE TO BUY

Amazon: The Snow Song: The spellbinding fable and magical love story, perfect for Christmas 2020!: Amazon.co.uk: Gardner, Sally: 9780008217402: Books

Waterstones: The Snow Song by Sally Gardner | Waterstones

Bookshop.org: https://uk.bookshop.org/a/3917/9780008217402

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