A Town's Dark Tradition

In the Protectorate, a grim tradition dictates that the youngest child is left in the forest each year as a sacrifice to a feared witch. The townspeople, led by the manipulative Council of Elders, believe this act keeps them safe. The Day of Sacrifice is a somber event, accepted with silent resignation. However, Antain, a young Elder-in-Training, is troubled by the practice and questions its morality, challenging the Elders' authority and the oppressive tradition.

A Witch's Unexpected Gift

Contrary to the townspeople's fears, Xan, the witch of the forest, is benevolent. She rescues the abandoned children, taking them to the Free Cities for adoption. On one occasion, she accidentally feeds a baby moonlight instead of starlight, imbuing the child with powerful magic. Realizing the potential danger, Xan decides to raise the child, Luna, as her own, with the help of her companions, Glerk, a wise swamp monster, and Fyrian, a tiny dragon.

A Child of Magic

As Luna grows, her magic becomes increasingly difficult to control. Xan attempts to teach her to harness her powers, but Luna's magic is unpredictable, manifesting in unexpected ways. Despite the challenges, Luna is a bright and curious child, eager to learn about the world. Her magical abilities, though a source of concern, also bring joy and wonder to her family, who strive to protect her and the world from her burgeoning powers.

A Mother's Desperate Hope

In the Tower, a madwoman, once a mother, clings to the hope that her child is alive. She creates paper birds and maps, sending them out in the hope that someone will understand her message. Her story is a testament to the enduring bond between mother and child, and the lengths a mother will go for her child. Her presence is a reminder of the sacrifices made by the townspeople and the personal cost of their fear.

A Boy's Troubling Questions

Haunted by the memory of the madwoman and the sacrifices, Antain questions the Council's authority and the necessity of the sacrifices. His compassion and curiosity set him apart from the other Elders. Antain's journey is one of self-discovery and courage as he seeks to uncover the truth behind the sacrifices and the witch. His determination leads him to the Tower, where he encounters the madwoman and her paper birds, fueling his resolve to challenge the status quo.

A Journey of Discovery

As Luna approaches her thirteenth birthday, she becomes aware of the gaps in her memory and the secrets surrounding her past. Her curiosity drives her to explore the world beyond her home, seeking answers to her questions. Along the way, she discovers her strength and resilience, as well as her love for her family. Luna's journey is one of self-discovery and empowerment, as she learns to embrace her magic and identity.

A Secret Buried Deep

As the story unfolds, the truth about the sacrifices, the witch, and Luna's origins emerges. The secrets long buried are finally brought to light, revealing the true nature of the Protectorate's traditions and the power of love and hope. The characters must confront their fears and prejudices, working together to create a better future for themselves and their community, culminating in a powerful message about truth and compassion.

A Witch's True Identity Revealed

As Luna's magic awakens, she learns that Xan, her grandmother, is the witch who has been saving the babies, not the evil figure feared by the townspeople. Xan's magic is waning, and she reveals the truth about the babies' fate to Luna. The real threat is Sister Ignatia, the Sorrow Eater, who has been feeding on the town's grief. Luna's understanding of her heritage sets the stage for a confrontation with Ignatia.

A Mother's Love Rekindled

Luna's mother, Adara, begins to remember her past and her love for Luna. As they reunite, Adara's presence and the magic of the boots she wears help Luna harness her powers. Together, they face the challenges ahead, with Adara's love providing strength and clarity. The bond between mother and daughter becomes a pivotal force in the unfolding events, highlighting the power of love and memory.

A Town's Awakening and Hope

As the fog of sorrow lifts, the townspeople see visions of their lost children thriving in the Free Cities, sparking hope and a desire for change. Ethyne, Antain's wife, leads a movement to challenge the oppressive traditions, and the town awakens to the possibility of a future without fear. The community's collective hope becomes a powerful force against the Sorrow Eater's influence, driving the narrative towards a hopeful resolution.

A Battle Against Sorrow's Grip

The climax unfolds as Luna, Xan, and their allies confront Sister Ignatia. Luna's newfound magic, combined with her family's love and support, challenges Ignatia's hold over the Protectorate. The battle is not just against Ignatia's magic but also against the sorrow she has cultivated. Luna's ability to see and unlock the Sorrow Eater's hidden heart becomes key to breaking her power and freeing the town from its grip.

A Legacy of Love and Magic

With the Sorrow Eater defeated and the town safe, Xan's time comes to an end. She leaves behind a legacy of love and magic, entrusting Luna with the future. Luna embraces her role as a protector and guide, ensuring that the lessons of the past are not forgotten. The story concludes with a sense of hope and continuity, as Luna carries forward the magic and love that have defined her family.

Characters

Xan

Xan is the misunderstood witch who saves abandoned children, finding them loving homes. Her accidental enmagicking of Luna sets the story in motion. Xan's love for Luna and her selfless actions define her character. As her magic wanes, she focuses on ensuring Luna's future and the town's safety, leaving a legacy of love and magic.

Luna

Luna, enmagicked by Xan, grows into a powerful witch. Her journey is one of self-discovery and empowerment, as she learns to harness her magic and understand her identity. Luna's love for her family and determination to protect the town drive her actions, highlighting themes of love, identity, and the power of magic.

Glerk

Glerk, Xan's loyal companion, is a mentor and protector to Luna. His deep understanding of the world and its mysteries provides guidance and wisdom. Glerk's love for his family is evident in his actions, offering stability and support throughout the story, embodying themes of wisdom and loyalty.

Fyrian

Fyrian, a small dragon, believes he is much larger than he is. His innocence and enthusiasm bring joy, and his loyalty to Xan and Luna is unwavering. Fyrian's journey of self-acceptance and transformation symbolizes growth and the importance of embracing one's true nature.

Antain

Antain, disillusioned with the Council's practices, seeks the truth about the sacrifices. His compassion and curiosity drive him to challenge the status quo, seeking a better future for the Protectorate. Antain's journey is one of courage and self-discovery, highlighting themes of truth and justice.

The Madwoman (Adara)

Adara, once thought mad, regains her memory and love for Luna. Her journey from madness to clarity is marked by the rekindling of her maternal bond. Adara's presence and magic play a crucial role in supporting Luna and confronting the Sorrow Eater, embodying themes of love and memory.

Grand Elder Gherland

Gherland, head of the Council of Elders, perpetuates the sacrifices to maintain control. His actions are driven by self-interest, willing to sacrifice others for his gain. Gherland's character serves as a foil to Antain, highlighting the corrupt nature of the Protectorate's leadership.

Sister Ignatia

Sister Ignatia, the Sorrow Eater, is the true antagonist. Her manipulation of the town's grief for power is central to the story. Ignatia's character explores themes of power, manipulation, and the consequences of unchecked ambition, culminating in her downfall.

Plot Devices

The Day of Sacrifice

The Day of Sacrifice represents the fear and control exerted by the Council of Elders. It serves as a catalyst for the story, driving the characters' actions and highlighting themes of power, tradition, and resistance. The sacrifices symbolize the Protectorate's oppression, central to the narrative.

Magic and Enmagicking

Magic drives the story, shaping characters' actions and relationships. Luna's enmagicking is pivotal, setting the stage for her journey of self-discovery. Magic highlights themes of identity, power, and the importance of understanding and controlling one's abilities.

The Paper Birds

The paper birds, created by the madwoman, represent her enduring hope and desire to communicate the truth. They symbolize her love for her child and determination to challenge the Protectorate's traditions, connecting characters in their quest for truth and justice.

The Sorrow Eater

The Sorrow Eater, Sister Ignatia, represents the hidden threat within the Protectorate. Her manipulation of the town's grief for power is central to the story. The revelation of her true nature and confrontation with Luna and Xan drive the climax, exploring themes of power and manipulation.

The Volcano

The volcano's eruption serves as a catalyst for the climax, symbolizing change and renewal. It forces characters to confront fears and work together to protect the town, representing the power of nature and the inevitability of change, reinforcing themes of transformation and love.

Analysis

"The Girl Who Drank the Moon" by Kelly Barnhill is a rich tapestry of themes exploring love, identity, and the courage to challenge oppressive traditions. Through the journey of Luna and her family, the story delves into the power of magic as a metaphor for self-discovery and empowerment. The narrative critiques the dangers of blind adherence to tradition and the manipulation of fear for control. It celebrates the enduring bonds of family and community, emphasizing the importance of truth, compassion, and the courage to seek change. The book's modern relevance lies in its message of hope and the transformative power of love and understanding in overcoming fear and oppression.

Last updated: December 2, 2024