A review by anca_antoci
The Snow Goose and The Small Miracle by Paul Gallico

5.0

I went into this book blind, with no knowledge of what it was about. Our Twitter book club picked it, thanks to Dave, and we delved right in. I didn’t know what to expect, but it did not disappoint. I wish it came with a warning, though, for the bittersweet ending. So consider yourself warned you might need some tissues on hand. I won’t talk much about the plot because there’s not much I can say without giving away spoilers. If you read the description from the back cover you get an idea.
The Snow Goose is a quick read, but it’ll tug at your heartstrings. Love, healing, and human connections are the main themes, and they’ll stick with you.

The backdrop of WWII in this novella makes you think about how war affects people. It’s a really good read. What sets “The Snow Goose” apart is its ability to be both accessible and profound, appealing to a broad spectrum of readers.

You’re initially drawn in by the melancholy, like a soft rain that stirs up a medley of feelings — there’s a touch of sadness, a sprinkle of hope, and a warmth of compassion.

You’ll be hooked on the characters’ experiences as the story goes on. You root for Philip Rhayader, with his gentle soul and the unconventional friendship he forms. You ache for Fritha, feeling her innocence and her devotion to the wounded snow goose.

The book brings the marshes and snow goose to life as characters. You’re swept away by the imagery, imagining the vastness of the marshlands and the beauty of the snow goose in flight. You can imagine feeling the breeze and hearing the birds.

Love, acceptance, and friendship are so relatable. You find yourself reflecting on your own life, relationships, and the importance of embracing imperfections. The snow goose is a sign of hope, reminding us that even those who are hurting can recover and thrive.

The end will leave you with a bittersweet song in your heart. You feel a mix of sorrow and comfort, like saying goodbye to a dear friend. You can’t shake the feeling. It makes you think about the beauty of human connections and the world.

In conclusion, “The Snow Goose” is a literary treasure that lingers in the mind, a touching exploration of love, compassion, and the resilience of the human spirit.