In Glendy Vanderah’s enchanting novel, Where The Forest Meets The Stars, readers are drawn into a world where reality and the extraordinary intertwine. The story centers on Joanna Teale, a woman seeking solace in her research after personal trials. Returning to rural Illinois to study nesting birds, Jo hopes to find peace and prove her resilience. However, her solitary life takes an unexpected turn with the arrival of a mysterious child.
This child, calling herself Ursa, appears barefoot and bruised, claiming to have journeyed from the stars to witness five miracles. Concerned for Ursa’s well-being yet captivated by her unusual nature, Jo reluctantly agrees to offer temporary shelter. Seeking answers about Ursa’s past, Jo enlists the help of her reclusive neighbor, Gabriel Nash.
As Jo and Gabe delve into the enigma of Ursa, they find themselves facing more questions than answers. How can a young girl possess such profound understanding, quoting Shakespeare with ease? Why does goodness seem to blossom around her? And why are they increasingly hesitant to consult missing children’s websites?
Amidst the unfolding mysteries, a deep bond forms between Jo, Gabe, and Ursa. Yet, they are aware that difficult decisions loom. As summer wanes and Ursa approaches her fifth miracle, the shadows of her past begin to encroach. When Ursa’s history finally catches up to them, long-held secrets will surface, and their destinies will be unveiled under the vast expanse of the stars.
Similar to the whimsical charm of “The Little Prince,” Where the Forest Meets the Stars is a tale that explores belief, love, and the capacity for wonder even in the face of adversity. Vanderah crafts a narrative that reminds us to embrace the extraordinary and to believe in the power of connection, even in the most unexpected circumstances, where the forest meets the stars.
