Let It Glow: A Heartwarming Holiday Journey
As the holiday season approaches, there’s something undeniably magical about stories that capture the warmth and essence of this time of year. When I stumbled upon Let It Glow, a delightful collaboration between Marissa Meyer and Joanne Levy, it felt like an invitation to revisit those faintly nostalgic yet vivid moments of holiday cheer. After my journey through Meyer’s enchanting Lunar Chronicles—and the familiar gravitational pull of stories with clever twists—I couldn’t resist diving into this tale.
The plot unfurls reminiscent of The Parent Trap, featuring two girls—each representing a different holiday tradition: Christmas and Hanukkah. When they meet and decide to switch places, the narrative becomes a charming exploration of family dynamics, traditions, and the heartwarming ways people celebrate. This elegant concept sets the stage for a symphony of festivities and family ties, and it’s beautifully executed. From the delightful chaos of Christmas lights to the joyful rituals of Hanukkah, the authors invite us to understand and appreciate the nuances of both holidays.
The character development centers around the two twelve-year-olds, who are portrayed with honesty and depth. The supporting cast, from younger siblings to grandparents, subtly enriches the narrative, providing layers to the sisters’ experiences. I particularly appreciated the multidimensional take on family that feels relatable for readers of all ages. While I didn’t find extensive backstories for every character, each one echoed genuine moments that resonate with what most 12-year-olds understand about family complexities.
Now, let’s talk about the audiobook experience! Gabi Epstein and Rebecca Soler narrate this cheerful tale perfectly. Soler, a familiar voice from my previous ventures through the Empyrean series and the Lunar Chronicles, brings a warmth that feels like a cozy blanket on a winter day. Epstein, new to me, held her own splendidly, making their combined narration feel like a comforting duet. The chemistry between the two made this experience even more delightful, as they breathed life into the characters and the holiday sparkle. The audio quality was pristine—no distractions, just pure holiday magic enveloping me for a delightful eight hours.
The writing style is straightforward yet engaging, making it an accessible read for kids while still charming for adults. The pacing flows naturally between lighthearted moments and the deeper lessons of friendship and family, without veering into saccharine territory. I found myself chuckling at the relatable antics of the girls, while also feeling a swell of emotion during the moments of reflection on what family means.
Let It Glow is a sweet tale that rekindles the joy of the holiday spirit, serving as a reminder that love and connection can be found in the most unexpected places—like discovering an identical sister. I unabashedly admit, I was a total sap for the heartwarming moments, and I loved every second of it!
If you’re looking for a heartwarming read that captures the joy of holidays and the beauty of family traditions, this book is a perfect fit. It’s a charming read for middle-grade audiences, yet it equally resonates with adults who appreciate nostalgic stories. This delightful tale certainly warmed my heart, filling me with festive cheer and reminding me of the simple joys of togetherness. So grab your hot cocoa and settle in—you won’t want to miss this enchanting journey.
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