Midwinter Wood for All

Susanna Clarke, the internationally bestselling and prize-winning author of Piranesi and Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell, presents an enchanting, beautifully illustrated short story set in the world of Jonathan Strange and Mr Norrell. 'A church is a sort of wood. A wood is a sort of church. They're the same thing really.' Nineteen-year-old Merowdis Scot, an unusual girl who can talk to animals and trees, is only ever truly happy when walking in the woods. One snowy afternoon, out with her dogs and Apple the pig, Merowdis encounters a blackbird and a fox. As darkness falls, a strange figure enters their midst, and the path of her life is changed forever.

This mesmerizing story, featuring gorgeous illustrations worthy of its magical nature, is a must-have addition to any fantasy reader's bookshelf. In an afterword, Susanna Clarke explains how she came to write this captivating tale.

The narrative begins with Merowdis, a young woman who possesses the remarkable ability to converse with animals and trees. She finds solace and joy in the tranquility of the woods, where she spends much of her time accompanied by her loyal canine companions and Apple, her beloved pig. On a particular snowy afternoon, Merowdis ventures into the forest, unaware of the transformative events that are about to unfold.

As she navigates the serene, snow-covered landscape, Merowdis encounters a blackbird and a fox, with whom she engages in a mystical dialogue. The animals' words echo the philosopher's observation that a church and a wood are, in essence, the same thing – both sacred spaces that offer a sense of wonder and connection to the natural world.

As the day draws to a close and darkness descends, a peculiar figure emerges, and the course of Merowdis' life takes an unexpected turn. The intrusion of this strange presence sets in motion a series of events that will forever alter her perception of the world and her place within it.

The story's enchanting and atmospheric qualities are further enhanced by the beautiful illustrations that accompany the text, perfectly capturing the magical ambiance of the narrative. Readers are transported into a realm where the boundaries between the natural and the supernatural blur, leaving them captivated and deeply immersed in the world of Jonathan Strange and Mr Norrell.

In her afterword, Susanna Clarke reveals the inspiration behind this captivating tale, sharing the process of how she came to write this additional chapter in the world she has so masterfully crafted. Her insights into the creation of this story offer readers a deeper appreciation for the richness and complexity of the fictional universe she has brought to life.

Overall, this short story is a mesmerizing addition to the world of Jonathan Strange and Mr Norrell, showcasing Susanna Clarke's exceptional storytelling abilities and her talent for weaving intricate, enchanting narratives. It is a must-read for fans of the series and a tantalizing introduction for those new to the author's work, leaving readers eager to delve further into the magical realms she has so skillfully imagined.

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