Moominland Midwinter

Synopsis

Special collectors' hardback editions lovingly restored to original designs 'I love these editions-so beautifully produced, so solid and permanent, just as Tove Jansson deserved.' Philip Pullman A beautiful collectors' edition of this classic Moomin story, using original 50s and 60s cover artwork, a fold out map and gorgeous endpapers. Moomins always sleep through the winter while the snow settles all around them, waking up in time for spring and the arrival of Snufkin and other friends. Or they did until one year when Moomintroll happened to wake up and find himself all alone in a sleepy, dusty house in a silent, snow-covered valley. In this moving story of a small, brave Moomin finding his way in the mysterious world of winter we discover that there are always new friends to be found - like the calm and wise Too-ticky and the irrepressible Little My - and new ways to play and be kind. From the publisher of The Invisible Child and The Fir Tree (all proceeds to Oxfam) here's the Moomin gift editions.

Summary

Chapter 1: Midwinter's Eve

* The Moomins and their friends gather for a grand feast to celebrate the arrival of midwinter, a time of hibernation and darkness.
* Snufkin, the solitary wanderer, provides a melancholic note, reminding them of the loneliness that accompanies the season.
* Real-life example: The traditional Christmas season, with its feasts and gift-giving, marking the onset of winter and the long nights.

Chapter 2: Into the Snow

* Moomintroll awakens early, his excitement over exploring the snow-covered Moominvalley overcoming his desire for sleep.
* He ventures outside, encountering the ice-cold but beautiful winter landscape.
* Real-life example: The anticipation and joy of experiencing fresh snow, transforming the familiar into something magical.

Chapter 3: The Ice Cave

* Moomintroll and his friends discover an icy cave filled with crystals and icicles.
* They are captivated by its ethereal beauty, but also aware of its treacherous nature.
* Real-life example: The awe-inspiring wonder of natural formations, such as caves or glaciers, which can be both alluring and dangerous.

Chapter 4: The Groke

* The friends encounter the Groke, a shadowy creature of loneliness and despair.
* Her presence chills them to the bone and threatens to consume their spirits.
* Real-life example: The emotional toll of isolation and the haunting presence of depression or anxiety.

Chapter 5: The Park Keeper

* Moomintroll meets the Park Keeper, a mysterious figure who tends to the sleeping creatures of Moominvalley during midwinter.
* He teaches Moomintroll the importance of accepting the darkness and solitude of winter.
* Real-life example: The role of mentors or wise individuals who provide guidance through difficult times.

Chapter 6: The Dragon

* The friends encounter a young ice dragon in the cave.
* Initially terrified, they learn that the dragon is harmless and alone.
* Real-life example: The discovery that even the most fearsome or unfamiliar creatures can have a gentle and vulnerable side.

Chapter 7: The Midwinter Bonfire

* As midwinter draws to a close, the Moomins and their friends gather around a bonfire to celebrate the return of light.
* They reflect on the challenges and triumphs they have faced during the long winter.
* Real-life example: The symbolism of festivals or holidays that mark the end of darkness and rebirth of hope.