The Girl Who Drank the Moon (Winner of the 2017 Newbery Medal) - A Spellbinding Journey into Magic and Humanity

By [Your Name] • Fantasy • Young Adult • 4.9/5 Stars

From the very first page, Kelly Barnhill weaves a tale so enchanting, so rich with emotion and wonder, that it's impossible to put down. "The Girl Who Drank the Moon" isn't just a book—it's an experience, a journey through a world where magic is both a blessing and a curse, and where the truest magic lies in love, courage, and the power of stories.

A World That Feels Both Familiar and Fantastical

The story unfolds in the village of Ignatia, a place shrouded in fear and bound by a cruel tradition. Every year, the townspeople sacrifice their youngest child to the witch in the woods, believing it keeps the darkness at bay. But what they don't know is that the witch, Xan, is actually kind-hearted and rescues the babies, delivering them to safe homes.

One fateful year, Xan accidentally fills a baby girl with moonlight instead of starlight, imbuing her with immense magical power. She names the child Luna and raises her as her own, knowing that one day, the girl's magic will awaken—and the world will never be the same.

Characters That Steal Your Heart

The characters in this novel are its beating heart:

  • Luna – A girl growing up with magic she doesn't understand, learning what it means to be powerful and vulnerable at the same time.
  • Xan – A witch with a grandmother's soul, whose love knows no bounds.
  • Glerk – A swamp monster with the wisdom of ages and a dry sense of humor.
  • Fyrian – A tiny dragon with a big personality and a heart even bigger.
  • Antain – A young man who dares to question the traditions that have long ruled his people.

Each character feels real, flawed, and deeply human—even the ones who aren't technically human at all.

Themes That Resonate Deeply

Barnhill doesn't just tell a magical story—she explores profound truths about:

  • The danger of blind tradition
  • The power of love to heal and transform
  • The importance of questioning what you're told
  • The beauty of growing up and discovering who you are

What makes this book truly special is how it balances darkness with light. There are moments of sorrow and fear, but they're always met with hope, humor, and the unwavering belief that people—and magic—can change for the better.

The Writing: Pure Magic

Kelly Barnhill's prose is nothing short of lyrical. She has a gift for creating sentences that feel like poetry, descriptions that paint entire worlds, and dialogue that rings true to the soul. The storytelling flows like a gentle river, carrying you through twists and turns until you reach the breathtaking conclusion.

Every chapter feels like a gift, whether it's making you laugh at Fyrian's antics, cry at a moment of loss, or gasp at a revelation that changes everything.

Why This Book Deserves Every Award It's Won

Winning the 2017 Newbery Medal wasn't just about great writing—it was about a book that speaks to the human spirit. "The Girl Who Drank the Moon" teaches us that:

  • Stories have power—the power to heal, to change minds, to save lives.
  • Love is the most powerful magic of all.
  • Even in the darkest times, there is always light—if you know where to look for it.

This is a book that will stay with you long after you've turned the last page. It's one you'll want to read again and again, each time discovering new layers of meaning and beauty.

Final Verdict: A Modern Classic

"The Girl Who Drank the Moon" is more than just a Newbery winner—it's a timeless tale that belongs on every bookshelf. Whether you're 10 or 100, this story will capture your imagination and touch your heart.

Perfect for: Fans of magical realism, fairy tale retellings, and stories about the power of love and family.

Content Note: While marketed as middle grade, this book deals with mature themes that make it suitable for readers aged 10 and up. Some younger readers may find certain scenes intense, but they're always handled with care and purpose.

If you're looking for a book that will make you believe in magic again, look no further. This is one journey you won't want to miss.