18 Feb Book Review: Where the Forest Meets the Stars by Glendy Vanderah

I recently picked up Where the Forest Meets the Stars by Glendy Vanderah, drawn by its intriguing premise and the promise of a heartwarming tale. As someone who loves character-driven stories with a touch of mystery, I was eager to dive into this one.

What’s it about?

The story centers on Joanna Teale, affectionately known as Jo, a determined graduate student who returns to rural Illinois to resume her research on nesting birds after the devastating loss of her mother and her own battle with breast cancer. Immersed in her work, Jo’s solitary routine is unexpectedly disrupted when a mysterious young girl appears at her cabin. Barefoot and bruised, the girl introduces herself as Ursa and claims to be an alien sent from the stars to witness five miracles on Earth. Skeptical yet concerned for Ursa’s well-being, Jo reluctantly allows her to stay, hoping to uncover the truth about this enigmatic child.

As days turn into weeks, Jo enlists the help of her reclusive neighbor, Gabriel Nash, to solve the mystery surrounding Ursa. Together, they are captivated by Ursa’s intelligence and charm, but her peculiar knowledge and uncanny insights raise more questions than answers. Why does Ursa have such a profound understanding of Shakespeare? Why do seemingly miraculous events occur in her presence? And why do Jo and Gabe find themselves increasingly reluctant to search for missing children reports?

As the trio forms an extraordinary bond, they each confront their own painful pasts and secrets. With summer drawing to a close and Ursa nearing the completion of her five miracles, shadows from her past threaten to unravel the fragile sanctuary they’ve built. When the truth finally emerges, all their lives are irrevocably changed, leading them to question the boundaries between reality and the extraordinary.

What This Chick Thinks

Diving into Where the Forest Meets the Stars, I was immediately captivated by Vanderah’s lyrical prose and the richly drawn characters. Jo’s resilience and dedication to her research resonated deeply, and her initial skepticism towards Ursa’s fantastical claims felt authentic and relatable.

Ursa is a delightful enigma—her childlike wonder juxtaposed with profound wisdom adds a magical layer to the narrative. Her interactions with Jo and Gabe often lead to moments of introspection, challenging them (and us readers) to reconsider the miracles present in everyday life.

Gabe’s character provides a grounded counterbalance to Jo’s scientific rationality and Ursa’s ethereal presence. His own struggles with past traumas and his journey towards healing add depth to the story.

The novel masterfully weaves themes of loss, healing, and the search for meaning. While the plot delves into serious subjects, including illness and trauma, it maintains a hopeful and uplifting tone. The pacing is deliberate, allowing for deep character development and reflection, which I found enriching.

However, some readers might find Ursa’s origin story and the subsequent revelations a bit predictable. Additionally, the blend of magical realism with real-world issues may not appeal to everyone. But for me, these elements added to the charm and depth of the narrative.

Final Thoughts

Where the Forest Meets the Stars is a beautifully crafted tale that explores the intersections of grief, love, and the inexplicable wonders of life. Vanderah’s debut novel is both heartwarming and thought-provoking, leaving readers with a renewed appreciation for the miracles that surround us. I’d rate it an 8.5 out of 10 for its compelling storytelling and memorable characters.

Try it if you like:

• “The Snow Child” by Eowyn Ivey
  A hauntingly beautiful story set in Alaska, where a childless couple’s lives are transformed by the arrival of a mysterious young girl they believe to be a snow child.
• “The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry” by Rachel Joyce
  A touching novel about a man’s spontaneous journey across England to visit a dying friend, leading to self-discovery and unexpected connections.
• “The Secret Life of Bees” by Sue Monk Kidd
  A compelling tale of a young girl’s search for truth and belonging in the American South, enriched by themes of family, love, and forgiveness.