Snowflake

Snowflake

Paul Gallico 1953

Frankly I was unprepared for how profound this story was.  Paul Gallico's lyrical writing tells of a snowflake, made in the clouds and coming to earth in a small mountain village.  That begins the gentle story of her life, all that she sees and wonders about.  Gradually she melts and begins a journey through rivers and lakes and adulthood.  Don't look for any scientific accuracy, this story is all allegory, contemplation about the meaning of our existence, our purpose, our time and experience through life, and our place in the universe.  Pretty heavy stuff, but told in a beautiful, simple way.  It's nice as a read aloud children's book, but probably best suited for those of us experiencing the existential crisis of middle age!