About the Book
Dipa Sanatani's The Little Light: A Story of Reincarnation and the Crazy Cosmic Family is a spirituality / young adult fantasy novel that anyone who likes their YA books with a side of mythology is sure to enjoy!
The story follows the Little Light -- a curious, innocent soul who personifies many of humanity's universal traits -- fear, courage, love, apprehension. The reader follows along as the Little Light learns, grows, and overcomes. Luckily for the Little Light (and the reader), the celestial beings -- Sun, the Moon, Mercury, Mars, Jupiter, Venus, Saturn, Rahu, and Ketu -- are there to help.
The Celestial Beings are far from perfect, each with their own shortcomings -- in some sense, they could be viewed as a more-realized version of humanity, complete with arguments and limiting beliefs. Fortunately, they come together to aid the Little Light on its journey to birth on Earth. If the Celestial Beings seem familiar, it's because they are, having been written about for millennia in the myths of various cultures around the world. Sanatani, however, manages to make these beings approachable and relatable for the modern reader as she personifies them as a family and shows their flaws and doesn't sugar-coat their actions.
One of the strengths of the novel is Sanatani's writing. She manages to bring human qualities to supernatural characters without compromising their wisdom or transcendent nature. With succinct narration and descriptive dialogue, Sanatani captures the unique characteristics of each Celestial Being -- from the impulsive to the annoying to the level-headed. The book opens with a beautiful conversation between the wise Dag and the Little Light, setting the tone of discovery for the rest of the book. Additionally, without giving it away, readers will really enjoy the clever chapter titles (hint: there is a theme)! For those who are curious (or who hate cliff-hanger endings), I'm happy to report The Little Light's ending is enjoyable and satisfying, but leaves enough questions to be answered in a sequel.
Another strength of the story is its theme. Although the book is an enjoyable read, it's not mindless entertainment -- it makes you think, contemplate, and grow. Sanatani explores reincarnation, mythology, and cosmology in a fun, approachable way that makes you relish the experience of learning. While reading the book, I often found myself looking up aspects of mythology mentioned in the book -- not because I needed clarification, but because I was curious and wanted to learn more. In a recent author interview, Sanatani cites her influences as J.K. Rowling and Roald Dahl. The ethereal, fantastical nature of her writing, although certainly her own style, certainly demonstrates some of these influences.
In summary, if you're a fan of young adult novels with a fascinating spiritual/mythology element, you will love The Little Light: A Story of Reincarnation and the Crazy Cosmic Family by Dipa Sanatani.
Author Dipa Sanatani. |
“Stop calling me, ‘my son’,” Mercury says haughtily. “I have a name, you know.”
“Must you always talk back?” the Sun says in anger.
“Must you always treat me like an extension of you?”
“I am your father…”
Oh no, the F word again. Like clockwork, Mercury immediately stops listening. He mischievously puts on a smile and nods, politely saying 'umm hmm' now and then…
“Is he always this way?” the Little Light whispers in Mercury’s ear.
“Believe it or not, he’s mellowed,” Mercury whispers back. “He used to be even worse. Thankfully, the humans stopped building temples for him. His ego was even bigger back then."
“What are you two talking about?” the Sun barks.
“Nothing important,” Mercury says, quickly changing the topic. “Enough with our father-son squabbles. We must begin manifestation.”
“Ah, of course,” the Sun says. “My apologies, Little Light. Please give me your hand.”
The Little Light stretches its silhouette-like hand towards the Sun. The Sun tenderly takes the Little Light’s hand in his. The Sun is so large that the Little Light's adult astral body looks like a three-year old child next to his.
"Ah...," the Sun says, sensing the Little Light's soul mission. "Your light is far warmer and brighter than what I've seen in generations... In fact, since…."More Information about The Little Light
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