A Northern Light...I didn't want it to end.

 
I recently finished reading A Northern Light by Jennifer Donnelly.  I really enjoyed this book...I purposely made myself stop reading towards the end to take a break, so that I could continue reading it one more time.

With Mattie's high interest in reading and literature, I think it is important to consider her thoughts concerning happy endings in stories, and how reality seems to be so different.  This book seems to show the 'best of both worlds'.  While reading through her story, it is easy to understand Mattie's constant struggles; promises she's made, following her dreams, and witnessing some harsh realities are some of the first things that come to my mind when thinking about Mattie and her story.  On the other hand, I felt myself constantly rooting for Mattie, and wondering what she would decide.  Many of the predictions I made in my head throughout the story came true, but some turned into what I didn't expect coming-- which is another quality of this story that really drew me in.  And the mysteriousness always left the urge to know more, what will happen now??  Overall, I found one of Mattie's words to be helpful in describing this story-- bittersweet.


The mysteriousness and romanticism behind the story really intrigued me, throughout.  The mystery of the drowned girl (Grace) and her gentleman friend ('Chester') was very captivating, even more so after reading the author's note and discovering the truth behind the real story.  Wow...

I also really loved when the author eventually combined the two scenarios, of Mattie's life at the Glenmore, and her past/current life.    Although it was confusing at first to follow along, as I noted in my earlier post, I think it really kept me on my toes and made me think deeper throughout the book.  I was unsure if she was at the Glenmore to eventually go to college, and when finding out she was doing it to help her father with money, I was nervous as to how it would end.
Mattie's decision in the end (especially during this time period) to follow her dreams was fearless and bold; it made me feel proud that she gathered the courage to do what felt right.  The book has still kept me thinking since I had finished it.  Nothing had ever happened with Lawton, will Mattie never return to visit?, what will become of her family members, and Royal, and Weaver?,  Will Mattie become a writer, or fall in love?  
Although left with many unanswered questions, A Northern Light was a great read, and would definitely recommend it--especially if you're looking for a great historical fiction! Enjoy =)