About This Book
Reach for this book when your child is expressing deep frustration with themselves or feeling like an outcast because of a trait they cannot change. It is a powerful tool for children struggling with self-loathing, physical insecurities, or the feeling that their own personality is somehow 'wrong.' Set in a snowy, atmospheric forest, the story follows Hortense, a girl who views her shadow as a dark, hateful intruder she must get rid of. When she finally manages to separate herself from it, she realizes that the very parts of herself she rejected are the source of her courage and protection. This modern fairy tale is beautifully illustrated and provides a safe, metaphorical space to discuss self-acceptance and the integration of our 'shadow' selves. It is most appropriate for children ages 4 to 8 who appreciate a slightly spooky, folk-inspired aesthetic.
