The Snow-Image A Childish Miracle   By: Nathaniel Hawthorne (1804-1864)

"The Snow-Image: A Childish Miracle" by Nathaniel Hawthorne is a delightful and imaginative children's story that captivates both young and old readers alike. Set in an idyllic New England town during a cold winter, the book weaves a tale of magic, friendship, and the power of the imagination.

The story follows two young siblings, Violet and Peony, who have a magical encounter with a snowman. With the help of their father, they sculpt the snowman into a remarkable figure, whom they name the Snow-Image. As the children become deeply attached to their creation, they start treating it as their little brother and the family dynamic changes.

What makes this book truly special is Hawthorne's ability to beautifully evoke the innocence and wonder of childhood. Through his simple yet evocative language, he captures the vivid imagination of children, reminding us all of the transformative power of play and creation. The strong bond between Violet and Peony is heartwarming and relatable, showcasing the importance of family and the unconditional love between siblings.

Hawthorne's vivid descriptions of the New England winter landscape, with its pristine snow-capped hills, frost-covered trees, and cozy cottages, create an enchanting backdrop for the story. His attention to detail transports the reader straight into the story's world, immersing them in the magical atmosphere and making it easy to envision the characters and their surroundings.

Despite being a children's story, "The Snow-Image" is also rich in symbolism and deeper themes. The snowman symbolizes the transient nature of childhood and the ephemeral beauty of the imagination. As the snow melts away, so too does the magic and innocence of childhood, reminding us of the fleeting moments of joy that can be found in our lives.

While the book primarily targets younger readers, it holds valuable lessons for readers of all ages. It teaches us to treasure the small and magical moments in life and to never let go of our childlike wonder. Moreover, it highlights the importance of family bonds, underscoring the need for love, support, and understanding within our own families.

"The Snow-Image: A Childish Miracle" is a true gem in children's literature, showcasing Hawthorne's remarkable storytelling talent and his ability to craft enchanting worlds. Whether you're a child or an adult, this book will surely leave you with a warm feeling in your heart and a renewed appreciation for the magic and innocence of childhood.

First Page:

One afternoon of a cold winter's day, when the sun shone forth with chilly brightness, after a long storm, two children asked leave of their mother to run out and play in the new fallen snow. The elder child was a little girl, whom, because she was of a tender and modest disposition, and was thought to be very beautiful, her parents, and other people who were familiar with her, used to call Violet. But her brother was known by the style and title of Peony, on account of the ruddiness of his broad and round little phiz, which made everybody think of sunshine and great scarlet flowers. The father of these two children, a certain Mr. Lindsey, it is important to say, was an excellent, but exceedingly matter of fact sort of man, a dealer in hardware, and was sturdily accustomed to take what is called the common sense view of all matters that came under his consideration... Continue reading book >>