Thursday, July 17, 2014

A Book for All Writers



The Night Gardener
by Jonathan Auxier
Harry N. Abrams, 2014
review copy from the public library, but I will want this one for my classroom library


This is a creepy Victorian tale of two orphans who find themselves working in an English manor house that is overrun by an ominous tree and visited at night by a mysterious spirit-man.

At the heart of the book, however, and what makes it a "book for all writers" is STORY and storytelling. Molly holds her brother Kip's world together with storytelling. Stories give them hope and help them deal with the uncertainties of life. Molly uses stories as currency, keys, and salve.
"I think I figured it out." She sniffed, looking up at the stars. "Hester asked me what the difference between a story and a lie was. At the time, I told her that a story helps folks. 'Helps 'em do what?' she asked. Well I think I know the answer. A story helps folks face the world, even when it frightens 'em. And a lie does the opposite. It helps you hide." 
Here's to more good stories, like this one. Here's to the writing that will bring them to life.


4 comments:

  1. This book is a wonderful example of the benefits of storytelling. I really like your definition too "Molly uses stories as currency, keys and salve."

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  2. I've had this on my list for a while, Mary Lee. Better move it to a higher place. Thanks for sharing about it.

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  3. Sounds great. Thanks for the tip, Mary Lee.

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  4. Ooooh. Sounds good. And creepy.

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