Greatly talented Freya Blackwood has joined with Mem
Fox to produce a work of exquisite beauty; divine in every way.
Themes cover the
joy and happiness of a new birth, the journey through life, and the death of a
beloved grandparent. All is presented in a delicate and loving way that
children can understand. A story of beginnings and endings.
Death is perhaps one of the hardest conversations
to have with a child. The Tiny Star
is an example of how to approach loss and grief with children, especially when the
loss is a beloved grandparent or other person close to them.
This story reminds
us that a life ending doesn’t have to be a tragedy, but can remain a shining
light of love that remains in the memory. It is there always, a star to be
seen. A joy to be remembered.
Fox’s text is measured and meaningful and carefully
chosen as always. It is Blackwood’s illustrations that bring the book to life
through the visual story. Her use of shades of blue as the main colour on every
page, bring elegance and style to the whole production.
Most of the heart-warming illustrations are of
family gatherings; the sharing of food and love, experiences and togetherness.
Many scenes take place outdoors in nature where there are animals and
butterflies, ducks, hens, cats, pigeons and even a possum! They depict a life… lived to the full and
intergenerational relationships.
With The Tiny
Star and the time of year, we are reminded of kindness and sharing, giving
and forgiving, and the fragility of life and how it is lived.
Title:
The Tiny Star
Author:
Mem Fox
Illustrator:
Freya Blackwood
Publisher:
Penguin Random House, $24.99
Publication
Date: November 2019
Format:
Hardcover
ISBN:
9780670078127
For
ages: 5+
Type:
Picture Book
