Where Snow Angels Go

Where Snow Angels Go is the first book for children written by award-winning Irish-born author, Maggie O'Farrell. One summer night, Sylvie gets a visit from a novice snow angel:

"He was picking his way through her room, muttering to himself, wings wafting behind him.

'First, save the person,' Sylvie could hear him say, 'then fly down … no, that's not right … Find the … No, hang on … first, fly down. Second, find the person. Third …' He shook his head, muddled, shutting his eyes, as if for inspiration. 'Now, what comes third? I've forgotten and I really ---'"

He's shocked to learn that Sylvie can see him: "'Oh dear. Oh no. I must have made a mistake. I'm going to be in so much trouble. This is my first flight, you see, and I did want it to go well. I've no idea what I did wrong.'"

Eventually, it is revealed that he is the snow angel that Sylvie made last winter, and he's there to save her. Sylvie is sure she doesn't need saving.

What a charming book for children this is! The illustrations by Daniela Jaglenka Terrazzini are quite enchanting. There's a gentle message in there about not taking advantage of a blessing and caring for others. Perhaps children in countries without winter snow could transfer the idea to crop angels or sand angels? Clearly Maggie O'Farrell has more than one string to her bow! A delightful read.