“Illuminations” is a heartwarming fantasy novel by T. Kingfisher, which is the pseudonym Ursula Vernon uses for her works for adults. It takes place in a medieval alternate world that features magic, a talking crow, and created supernatural beings. It could be considered young adult, but it’s certainly satisfying for adults as well. The story follows a family of Illuminators, of the Studio Mandolini. Our protagonist is Rosa, who is the youngest member of the family. Magic in this world tends to work due to illuminations which are drawings or paintings that are made magic by their creator, and then do a specific thing. For example, an illumination of a blue-eyed cat will keep mice away. There are specific illuminations for keeping fire away, and preventing a roof from leaking. Rosa finds a very odd box in the basement of the studio while looking for something else. Curiosity overcomes her, and she manages to open it. This releases a malevolent being into the world with the power to make illuminations inert. Rosa must try to correct her mistake before this being unravels the magic that holds everything together. Ms. Vernon says in her epilogue that this was a novel rejected by her publisher, so it is put out by her own Red Wombat Studio. Like most of her work it is an uplifting novel, which has warm characters, dry humor, and a positive outcome. I can’t help but recommend it!

This story is for artist of both profound and stick. I enjoyed it