The author uses many different symbols to represent the family at the center of the story, including the magic forest—a patch of dead trees on the outer edge of the island. The magic forest is a representation of Sophia’s family after the death of her mother, and it enhances the theme of Healing From Loss. Sophia, Grandmother, and Father have formed a delicate union as they heal from the loss, just as the magic forest is fragile: “To open a clearing or separate the collapsing trunks might lead to the ruin of the magic forest” (9). This description alludes to the idea that the family cannot take another loss or significant change at the outset of the book, although they have the potential for renewal and regrowth, just like the forest.

Grandmother has unidentified health conditions which impact her legs and her balance. To counteract her medical issues, she takes Lupatro for dizziness and she uses a walking stick to get around and to help extend her reach. The Lupatro and the walking stick are symbols of Grandmother’s health and of her resilience.

Grandmother is encouraged by