The Light Jar by Lisa Thompson is a poignant, thoughtful, and beautifully crafted middle-grade novel that explores themes of resilience, friendship, mental health, and healing. 

The story follows Nate, a young boy who finds himself hiding in a dilapidated, abandoned cottage in the woods after his mother takes him away from an abusive relationship. Left to fend for himself when his mother mysteriously disappears, Nate must confront his fears, loneliness, and uncertainty. Along the way, he encounters two unlikely companions: a quirky girl named Kitty, who is on her own quest to solve a local mystery, and his imaginary friend, Sam, who reappears to help Nate process the challenges he's facing.

Throughout the book you will find out a few theme that been expose by the author such as Empathetic. Lisa Thompson skillfully addresses complex issues like emotional abuse, neglect, and loneliness in a way that is sensitive and accessible to younger readers. Through Nate’s journey, the novel sheds light on how children process trauma and cope in difficult circumstances. Lisa also create an imaginary Friend as a Coping Mechanism. You can it when Sam, Nate's imaginary friend, is a unique and compelling element of the story. His presence serves as a window into Nate's inner world, providing insight into how he navigates his fears and unresolved emotions. This adds a layer of depth and creativity to the narrative.

For me the book starts off a little slowly, which might make it challenging for some younger readers to immediately get drawn in. However, the pace picks up as the story progresses. The deeper you are in this book, you will understand the relation of the power of hope and light in dark times. This book also using the importance of friendship and teach us how to overcoming fears and embracing inner strength.

My final thoughts that The Light Jar is an emotionally rich and beautifully written novel that speaks to the resilience of the human spirit, even in the face of hardship. It's a perfect read for middle-grade readers who enjoy heartfelt stories with a touch of mystery and adventure. Adults will also find it meaningful, as it offers insights into how children process and heal from difficult experiences. This book is perfect for fans of books like A Monster Calls by Patrick Ness or The Boy at the Back of the Class by Onjali Q. Raúf.

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐/⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐