05 Jun Book Review: Where the Forest Meets the Stars by Glendy Vanderah

Some stories have a way of sneaking up on you, wrapping you in their world until you’re completely immersed. Where the Forest Meets the Stars by Glendy Vanderah is one such tale. Published in 2019, this debut novel quickly garnered attention, becoming an Amazon Charts, Wall Street Journal, and Washington Post bestseller, as well as a Goodreads Choice Award finalist. Vanderah, who previously worked as an endangered bird specialist in Illinois, brings her deep appreciation for nature into this narrative, enriching the story with authentic details.​

What’s it about?

Joanna Teale, affectionately known as Jo, is a graduate student deeply engrossed in her field research on nesting birds in the rural landscapes of Illinois. Following the devastating loss of her mother and her own arduous battle with breast cancer, Jo seeks solace and purpose in the rhythms of nature. Her days are meticulously structured, filled with early mornings and detailed observations, as she immerses herself in the avian world, hoping to find healing in the predictable patterns of bird behavior.​

One tranquil evening, as the sun casts its golden hues over the horizon, Jo’s routine is unexpectedly disrupted. She discovers a young girl, barefoot and bearing signs of bruises, standing near her secluded cabin. The child introduces herself as Ursa and claims to be an alien sent from the stars with a mission to witness five miracles on Earth. Despite her initial skepticism and concern for Ursa’s well-being, Jo is drawn to the girl’s enigmatic presence and allows her to stay temporarily, intending to unravel the mystery surrounding her sudden appearance.​

As days turn into weeks, Jo realizes the complexities of caring for a child who possesses an uncanny intelligence and an otherworldly perspective on life. Ursa’s knowledge is vast and inexplicable; she reads and comprehends Shakespeare with ease and exhibits a profound understanding of the natural world. Intrigued and somewhat overwhelmed, Jo seeks assistance from her reclusive neighbor, Gabriel Nash, a man who has retreated from society, burdened by his own past traumas. Reluctant at first, Gabe is gradually drawn into the unfolding mystery, and together, they form an unlikely trio bound by curiosity and a shared desire to protect Ursa.​

Ursa’s presence acts as a catalyst, bringing about subtle yet significant changes in both Jo and Gabe. For Jo, Ursa challenges her to confront her lingering grief and fears, encouraging her to open her heart to the possibilities of love and healing. Gabe, on the other hand, finds in Ursa a reason to re-engage with the world he had long shunned, rediscovering connections he thought were lost. The three form an unconventional family unit, each finding solace and strength in their shared experiences and the sanctuary they’ve built together.​

Throughout the narrative, Ursa remains steadfast in her mission to witness five miracles. These miracles, varying from the seemingly mundane to the extraordinary, serve as milestones in their collective journey, symbolizing moments of wonder and revelation. However, as the summer progresses and Ursa’s self-imposed deadline approaches, shadows from her past begin to loom large. The idyllic sanctuary they’ve created is threatened by the encroaching realities of the outside world. Jo and Gabe are forced to confront the possibility that Ursa’s past may be more perilous than they had imagined, and their commitment to protecting her leads them down a path fraught with danger and self-discovery.​

The climax of the story is both heart-wrenching and uplifting, as truths are unveiled and each character must confront their own vulnerabilities and desires. Jo and Gabe’s unwavering determination to safeguard Ursa culminates in a series of events that test their resilience and the bonds they’ve formed. In the end, the novel beautifully illustrates the transformative power of love, trust, and the belief in something greater than oneself. It underscores the idea that family is not solely defined by blood relations but can be forged through shared experiences and mutual care.​

What This Chick Thinks

A Tapestry of Emotion

Vanderah masterfully weaves a narrative rich in emotion, capturing the complexities of human relationships with authenticity. The bond that develops between Jo, Gabe, and Ursa feels genuine, filled with moments of joy, sorrow, and introspection. It’s a testament to the author’s ability to portray the intricacies of love and healing.​

Character Depth and Development

Each character is meticulously crafted, with layers that are gradually peeled back as the story unfolds. Jo’s resilience, Gabe’s vulnerability, and Ursa’s enigmatic charm create a dynamic interplay that drives the narrative forward. Their personal growth is palpable, making their journeys all the more compelling.​

Balancing Reality and Mystery

The novel strikes a delicate balance between grounded reality and the allure of the unknown. Ursa’s celestial origins add a layer of mystery that keeps readers engaged, while the real-world challenges faced by the characters provide a relatable anchor. This blend invites readers to ponder the boundaries between the tangible and the fantastical.​

Pacing and Resolution

While the story unfolds at a leisurely pace, it allows for deep character exploration and the gradual build-up of tension. Some readers might find the pacing slow, but the emotional payoff is well worth the journey. The resolution ties up the narrative threads satisfactorily, leaving a lingering sense of hope and fulfillment.​

Final Thoughts

Where the Forest Meets the Stars is a poignant exploration of love, loss, and the unexpected connections that can heal fractured souls. Vanderah’s debut novel resonates with authenticity and warmth, making it a memorable read that lingers long after the final page. For those seeking a story that delves into the depths of human emotion while offering a touch of mystery, this book is a stellar choice. I’d rate it a solid 9 out of 10.​

Try it if you like:

• The Light Between Oceans by M.L. Stedman A heart-wrenching story about love, loss, and the impossible choices people make when family and morality collide.
• Beasts of Extraordinary Circumstance by Ruth Emmie Lang – A charming blend of nature, whimsy, and quiet magic, following a man who seems to bend the laws of nature wherever he goes.
• The Snow Child by Eowyn Ivey – Set in 1920s Alaska, this novel mixes folklore with harsh realism in a hauntingly beautiful story about a mysterious child and a couple longing for family.