Book Review: Brightly Shining

Isn't the cover of this book a beautiful thing? And if the shimmering gold stars and snowy tree don't entice you, the accolades will. Indeed, the many glowing comments lured me in: "a magical modern classic," "dazzling contemporary fable of hardship and grit," and "absolute best that has been written in Nordic literature." Somehow, sadly, my experience didn't match these reviews. I don't know where these reviewers found "instant hygge and a warming of the heart" or "a song of unbearable beauty."

Brightly Shining tells the story of two young girls, and their alcoholic father, facing another challenging Christmas. Perhaps I'm simply too raw to read about addiction when it resides within my experience. The narration is well-done; the author nails the childish perspective in this scenario. Yet, I couldn't agree that this story inspires hope. It scoffs at faith; nihilistic perspectives pervade. It labels Jesus as a "great medicine man... that is all."

For me, this perspective was depressing and hope-dispelling. When you tear down the surest path to hope, what is left? Empty despair. This is exactly what these girls face and experience. Alcoholism and addiction are ever-present realities in this world. But, for me, faith brings the hope that invades the darkness. In this tale, the "brightly shining" star hides under a bushel. I ended this book in a real funk. I'd love to get back the handful of hours I invested.