Books in Snowy Climes
It’s winter, and while I saw a little bit of snowfall at the end of January, it wasn’t enough to really satisfy the itch of a snowy day. If you’re like me and can only experience a snowy climate through the pages of a good book, I thought I’d share some books I read in the last few years that really immersed me in the snowy weather.
The Winternight Trilogy* by Katherine Arden
Arden’s writing creates a world of tradition and magic, deeply grounded in Russian folklore. My biggest feeling about the first book is that there truly is no scarier villain than the religious villain. It could be for you if you like magical realism, a strong sense of place, and are at all interested in learning about Russian history and culture.
The Snow Child* by Eowyn Ivey
Set in Alaska and also based on a Russian fairytale, it tells the story of a childless couple whose home is graced by a mysterious and magical event. This book also has a very strong sense of place.
The Inspector Gamache Mysteries* by Louise Penny
This series is beloved by many. It has well-formed characters and explores both the light and darkness in human nature. Many of the books showcase the harsh Quebec winters, but these are cozily contrasted with the warmth and comfort of a friend’s fireside, good food, and drink.
Good Morning, Midnight* by Lily Brooks-Dalton
You’ll feel the chill in this dystopian novel that alternates between the Arctic and space.
Peace Like a River* by Leif Enger
Much of this novel takes place in a Minnesota and North Dakota winter. The cold feels palpable, but you also feel the warmth and hope that there’s something else waiting for us beyond cold, unfeeling death.
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