Tolog Review: Practical Magic

Practical Magic
by Alice Hoffman
reviewed by Natasha Mertens

Love is very confusing. It is hard to distinguish the difference between what a person needs and what a person wants when in a relationship. It is easy to become lost in a fantasy world of love when blinded by these desires. The book Practical Magic by Alice Hoffman addresses this problem faced by people of all ages. It clearly portrays the harm that can result from a relationship, even if the relationship appears to be perfect.

Sally and Gideon Owen, despite being siblings, are very different. Sally is a thoughtful person who is always careful with what she does in life. Gideon, however, is reckless and ignores the consequences of her actions. When they were little, the Owen sisters moved in to live with their aunts. Since then, their lives have been anything but normal. They have grown up knowing how love can change a person. The sisters have stayed up countless nights listening to women come to the back door of the house begging for their aunt’s help with love. These women are willing to do anything to get what they want, but quickly find out that their desires lead to undesirable consequences. After seeing this, Sally and Gideon swore to never become overwhelmed by love. Despite this, however, they still fall for the trap of love and face the consequences. Both Sally and Gideon leave their aunt’s house in their own time to follow their ideas of an ideal life. Everything is calm until their pasts catch up to them and Sally and Gideon meet each other once again. They help each other through the problems that their love has created while separated and develop an unbreakable bond.

The Owen sisters give the reader a better understanding of just how destructive love can be. They show a strong sense of determination and purpose as they overcome the challenges they find in life. Sally and Gideon set an example for young women to follow as they become more independent and mature. Alice Hoffman wrote a book that is sure to draw readers in and continue to surprise them.