THE CIRCLES IN THE SKY, by Karl James Mountford, Candlewick Studio, Sept. 27, 2022, Hardcover, $18.99 (ages 3-7)
A fox discovers a lifeless bird and isn’t sure what to do in The Circles in the Sky, a reimagined folktale by Karl James Mountford.
One morning, Fox is drawn toward the forest. There, in a clearing, he sees something small and silent, perhaps forgotten. It’s a bird, lying as still as can be. Fox is confused, upset, and angry. Is the bird broken? Why doesn’t it move or sing, no matter what Fox does?
His curious antics are spied by a little moth, who shares a comforting thought about the circles in the sky — that the sun, even after it sets, is reflected by the moon and the stars, reminding us of its light. —Synopsis provided by Candlewick Studio
You might pick up The Circles in the Sky because of its beautiful cover, but what’s inside is even better.
Author-illustrator Karl James Mountford balances text and illustration perfectly, creating a book worthy of awards.
Death and grief are hard things to understand for people of all ages, and Mountford’s exploration of the subject is spot on. Mountford’s lyrical text is thoughtful and inquisitive. Children will immediately relate to Fox’s concern and frustration. And while he can’t quite put a name on it, Moth gently guides him through to understanding.
Mountford’s accompanying illustrations are, quite frankly, exquisite. His multilayered artwork is stylized and elegant. It truly brings his story to life.
The Circles in the Sky is a book everyone should own. It’s one of my favorite books of 2022.
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