Book & Tea Pairing: Echo Mountain

The Book: Echo Mountain by Lauren Wolk

As a nonfiction junkie, it’s not too often that I curl up in bed with a YA novel – or any novel for that matter. But Lauren Wolk’s Echo Mountain was a welcome distraction from everything going on in our world today. 

Set in Depression-era Maine, the story echoes some of my childhood favorites: Little House on the Prairie, Where the Red Fern Grows, Shiloh… the list goes on. Wolk’s writing style is uniquely poetic and gives depth to the characters – even the protagonist Ellie’s father, who’s in a coma for most of the book. I found myself relating to Ellie, who’s clearly an empath and a natural adventurer. ​

Clearly, I enjoyed the book. But why am I sharing a review of Echo Mountain on a blog about living well with chronic illness? (Besides the fact that reading YA novels is as good a way to pass the time in quarantine as anything else). At its heart, this is a story about healing, both physically and mentally. 

While twelve-year-old Ellie spends her time scavenging the mountainside for ingredients to treat the physical wounds of her father and her new friend, it’s the mental and emotional wounds that truly need healing. Ultimately, it’s a combination of time, empathy, music, honey and puppies that brings healing to the families of Echo Mountain. 

In a time of uncertainty, this story serves as a reminder of the simple joys in life – like holding a newborn puppy or savoring a fresh slice of homemade pie. I won’t give away the ending, but it’s a happy one. And I think happy endings are something we could use a lot more of these days.  ​

The Tea: Stonewall Kitchen Wild Maine Blueberry Tea with Honey

This is the perfect iced tea to enjoy with a bit of honey on a hot summer day. Be transported to a Maine mountainside with this refreshing blend of black tea and natural blueberry flavors. 

Blueberries are known to have one of the highest antioxidant levels of any fruit. Add a little honey – preferably local – and you’ll get even more health benefits. In addition to treating festering wild animal bites (don’t try this at home), honey can improve blood pressure and cholesterol.  

Even though I drink loose-leaf tea almost exclusively, this delicious blend has become a summer staple in my house. Give it a try yourself and let me know what you think in the comments!  ​