Opening Doorz
“Celebrating Life”
Let It Snow explores a young adult’s feelings, right from feeling depressed and angry and then going through the process of achieving that Christmas joy which was lost in them that holiday season.
By Geneive D’Souza | Opening Doorz Editorial | December 22, 2018
Book Review: Let it Snow
Authors: John Green, Maureen Johnson, Lauren Myracle
Rating: 4/5
The Essence: This young adult fiction novel features three holiday stories that intertwine and culminate in a meeting of all the characters from each storyline. Most teens and tweens will relate to various aspects of the book, particularly the experience of being caught in a huge snowstorm that ultimately brings these young people together.
John Green, Maureen Johnson and Lauren Myracle: three writers each with a different writing style, come together with three stories and one message for all young adults.
This young adult fiction novel features three holiday stories that intertwine and culminate in a meeting of all the characters from each storyline. Most teens and tweens will relate to various aspects of the book, particularly the experience of being caught in a huge snowstorm that ultimately brings these young people together.
Each story is written in a distinct style, reflecting the unique voices of the three authors. Despite their differing approaches, all three convey a common theme: the existence of a Christmas miracle.
Let it Snow delves into the emotional journey of young adults, exploring feelings of depression and anger, and the eventual realisation of the joy of Christmas that may have been lost during that holiday season. The stories portray the attainment of happiness not only through the celebration of Christmas but also through embracing life itself. This sense of peace is achieved when broken bonds are repaired, when new people enter one’s life and impart valuable lessons, and when family relationships are strengthened.
Though parental figures are mentioned briefly, their relationships with the teenagers vary across the three stories. Maureen Johnson depicts Jubilee’s parents as concerned and anxious but easily blinded by her seemingly “perfect” boyfriend, complicating Jubilee’s struggle to express her desire for happiness over perfection.
John Green illustrates Tobin’s mother as overprotective, while his father tends to go with the flow. Tobin relishes the freedom of being home alone and uses their car, only to damage it in the snow. Meanwhile, Lauren Myracle portrays Addie as frustrated with her mother’s cheerful demeanour, which she perceives as patronising. Although her family encourages her to participate in holiday festivities, Addie chooses to isolate herself, which might explain why Myracle includes only a brief mention of her mother.
Overall, this book is perfect for the upcoming holiday season, filled with wry humour and compelling stories.
Activity: As a tween or teen, you may have many secrets which you haven’t shared with your parents. For the next month, confide in them with all your doubts and fears, make them your best friend, and see how drastically your life will change.
Geneive D’Souza is a Grade IX student from Don Bosco International School (DBIS), Mumbai. She is passionate about writing, music, playing the piano and La Liga (FC Barcelona and Lionel Messi).
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