This Winter

The holiday season is often depicted as the most joyous time of the year, but for Tori and Charlie, it brings a mix of emotions and difficulties that make it hard to celebrate. This year’s Christmas proves to be one of the most challenging yet, as they both grapple with personal struggles and the pressures of family expectations.

As the story unfolds, Tori reflects on her past thoughts, realising that she used to prefer "difficult" over "boring". Now, with a deeper understanding of her experiences, she endeavours to navigate the complexities of her relationship with her brother Charlie and the emotional weight they both carry. Tori tries to focus on the present, attempting to block out the sadness of recent months.

In her effort to find a slice of normalcy, Tori tells herself: I’m not going to think about the past few months, about Charlie and me, and all of the sad. I’m going to block it all out. Just for today. As Tori braces herself for a bittersweet Christmas, she feebly declares, "Happy Christmas," I say.

This Winter beautifully captures the essence of sibling love and the trials they endure together, showing that even in the darkest times, there is hope, resilience, and the possibility of a brighter tomorrow. Alice Oseman's skillful storytelling and deeply relatable characters make this novella an essential read for fans of her work and anyone who appreciates heartfelt, character-driven narratives.

Join Tori and Charlie in this deeply moving and holiday-themed chapter of their lives, as they learn to lean on each other and face their challenges with courage and compassion.