TWINKLE. TWINKLE, WINTER NIGHT by Megan Litwin

Review by Kristi Mahoney

In Twinkle, Twinkle, Winter Night (September 20, 2022, Clarion books), debut author, Megan Litwin and illustrator Nneka Myers take readers on an exquisite journey through a magnificent winter wonderland. Using the beloved nursery rhyme, this story presents a winter romp that explores all the diverse ways animals and people experience and celebrate the winter months. Every page is a new discovery of light —from serene, snow-draped landscapes sprinkled with woodland creatures, to family-fun on a shimmery pond, to a bustling town come alive with the many celebrations of the season. Nneka Myer’s beautiful illustrations add another layer to this story, creating a world filled with whimsical characters, joyous details, and scenes that glow with every turn of the page.
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Twinkle, Twinkle, Winter Night is a beautiful book about finding joy in the details, seeing light in the darkness, and discovering all of the many wonders of the season. The exploration of winter activities makes it an ideal classroom companion, while the snuggle-in mood of the book equally lends it to bedtime reading. So, grab a steaming cup of cocoa, pile it high with marshmallows, and drink in this cozy winter wonderland. Twinkle, Twinkle, Winter Night is sure to shine bright throughout the entire season and for years to come. 

On Writing:
With a fresh twist on the familiar classic of Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star, Megan ensures that every rhyme sings and every word sparkles. Why say “stars” when you can say, the “sky sparkles like a chandelier”? Simple candles illuminate when they become “windows wink with eyes of gold.” Megan shows us that well-chosen words are magical, transforming a manuscript into a work of art. Megan’s tale also includes a diverse mix of events, honoring many different observances to warm the hearts of readers from various backgrounds.

Below is a summary of ways you could use Twinkle, Twinkle, Winter Night, as a mentor text for your own manuscript:

• Try out using a beloved nursery tale to act as a basic structure and provide immediate familiarity with the reader.
• Study the word choices and poetic phrases to guide you in adding lyrical flair.
• Check to ensure your manuscript offers as an inclusive experience.

To learn more about Megan, visit https://www.meganlitwinbooks.com/
Browse Nneka's fabulous portfolio at https://www.nnekamyers.com/
Click here for vendor links.

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