Having read Jennifer Donnelly's A Northern Light as one of the first selections for this semester, I keep returning to this book in the back of my mind. Donnelly has truly created a masterpiece of young adult literature in the story of Mattie Gokey. Despite taking place over a century ago, the life choices that this girl must make ring true even in the 21st century. Who cannot empathize with the struggle of duty? Every single one of us has had to weigh the needs of others against our own, and the universality of this message makes A Northern Light a necessary read for persons of any age, but especially young adults. Mattie's journey to becoming the woman she wants to be is rift with life's obstacles. She must face abandoning her already torn family in hopes of pursuing an education in New York City, with a career as a writer. Traditional ways of life do hold value for her (marriage to a good man who she can build a life with, being a responsible wife & mother, nurturing the family she loves & community in which she lives), but when everything is balanced, she must ultimately choose for herself and potentially hurt the ones she loves the most.
I implore you, please vote for A Northern Light. This work is worthy of such an honor. I would be remiss if I did not defend my support and encourage you all to discover the greatness that has been crafted in this story.
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