A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L'Engle (BOOK REVIEW) 5/5

This book was a trip to read, in more ways than one. Recommended to me by one of my best friends, it came with a glowing recommendation and was rife with promises of childhood wonder, akin to Narnia or The Borrowers, or Gregor the Overlander. When I first began my read, I wasn’t sure I would like this novel. It’s… quirky, to say the least. The writing style is whimsical, and I haven’t read anything else by Madelein L’Engle, but I feel as though she must have a particularly strong writing voice- I get the sense if I read enough off her books, I would begin to be able to recognize her writing without being told it was something by her. At first, I wondered if the book would be a chore to read, when presented with science and deep thinking posed by the main characters, but I quickly realized it was part of the unique charm that Mrs. L’Engle crafted. It isn’t complicated, or too dense, but instead, you find yourself seeing things through the eyes of main character Meg. Everything from her logical thoughts, to her emotional state. You become her, a young girl with a big brain and a bigger heart, who doesn’t quite fit in and is trying to find her place in the world.

To put it simply, it’s a magical experience. I was sucked into this book, invested in every step of the way. There are beautiful messages etched upon its pages, life lessons and deeper meanings that anyone could benefit from. At the same time, it wasn’t a complicated book. My favorite part happened to be a subtle romance between the precocious Meg and charming Calvin. The book displays this beautifully- there is no lengthy emotional connection, but merely subtle moments. Little comments, compliments, details between the two that weave them together. It’s a simple, true love that doesn’t need explanation- and isn’t that how love should always be?

I feel like this book, as strange as it might come off to some people, was a growing experience. I should have experienced it in childhood, and feel oddly robbed that I only just now have read this as an adult. Besides the deep meanings and heartfelt romance, there were so many things to list that I loved. The family love was just as important, one of the biggest themes of the novel, leaving a powerful imprint. The presence of Mrs. Who, Mrs. Which, and Mrs. Whatsit was interesting and unique, and I am still not entirely certain what they are, but it doesn’t matter whether or not they’re labeled or explained. Mrs. Who, for the record, is my favorite, with her constant inspirational quotes. The creativity floods out of this book, utterly inspiring and making me feel like a child again- with a world full of possibilities.

Honestly, I could go on for ages. I could quote whole passages and moments, explain intricate details that make this novel a must read. But instead, I will just tell you to read it for yourself and fall in love with it like I did. As soon as I read it, I bought the whole series, and I look forward to continuing the journey.