Why Read Pilu of the Woods Review written by the Hobbit on September 17th, 2022. This post contains affiliate links, you can find out more on our policies page or in the disclaimer at the bottom of the blog.
Know Before You Read Pilu of the Woods
Book: Pilu of the Woods
Author: Mai K. Nguyen
Genre: Graphic, Drama, Adventure
Length: 160 pages
Age suggested: 8 and up
Release Date: April 16th, 2019
Warnings: The plot revolves around grief and the loss of a parent. A child runs away from home, but returns safely. Very minor language (i.e. butt face is used) and some angry yelling between family
Quick Pilu of the Woods Summary
Willow loves the woods next to her house and often uses them to escape her complex emotions as a family tragedy occurs. One day, while walking through the woods, she meets a forest girl named Pilu who has run away from home. Through friendship and discussion, these two try to help each other cope with their experiences and emotions.
Pilu of the Woods Review
(Contains Spoilers)
Why Read Pilu of the Woods
I would say there are two major reasons to read Pilu of the Woods (and many, many minor ones). The first is simply the artwork. Everything is so adorable and lively. This is very helpful as it also cushions the blow of what could be a difficult read due to the topics covered.
With that said, the topics covered and how they are tackled is the second and most important reason. Willow’s mother has recently passed, which leaves her with very strong and powerful emotions. Rather than handling her emotions, she treats them as monsters in her head and attempts to completely ignore them. This comes to a head at the climax of the book when she is forced to face these monsters, but learns not everything is as it seems. It is an absolutely beautiful tale of facing and dealing with your emotions before they are forced to explode.
Is Pilu of the Woods Appropriate
At it’s core, Pilu of the Woods tells the story of a grieving girl who has recently lost her mom. This comes out in lots of little ways, mostly with pent-up anger and outbursts. Nothing is said that is too bad, but the emotions is very much felt. As long as the reader can handle these topics/feelings, there is absolutely no reason to avoid this fantastic book!
Favorite Pilu of the Woods Quotes
“Do You Want to Make a Little Promise with Me?”
“Just ‘Cause You Can’t See It, Doesn’t Mean It’s Not Important…Doesn’t Mean It’s Gone.”
“Out Little Actions Can Echo So Far Beyond These Trees”
“We gotta be careful not to hurt the things around us, because nothing’s really gone forever…Not Words, Not Things, Not People.”
Pilu of the Woods Quotes
Pilu of the Woods Discussion Questions
Themes to Discuss: Grief, Friendship, Dealing with Emotions, Loss
- Why was Willow so upset with her sister?
- What do Pilu and Willow have in common? What are their differences?
- How does helping Pilu with her issues eventually help Willow with hers?
- What do the little monsters in Willow’s mind represent?
- Why were these little monsters really so angry?
- When you have big feelings or emotions, how do you handle them?
Thanks for reading our Pilu of the Woods review. Before you go, check out these other posts.
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