The Book Activist reviews A Sky Full of Kindness by Rob Ryan

Join two birds on an epic adventure as they become parents for the first time...

The story begins with two birds who are ecstatic to discover they are going to be parents.  Their fellow feathered friends are overjoyed for them, but are soon sharing their wisdom, causing the mother bird to become frightened about all the potential perils of parenting. Are they ready to have a child? Such is her fear, the wisest and oldest bird of all sends her on a journey of discovery to see if she can find some peace about what lies ahead.  The journey takes her across the land and sea and she meets many other birds of all different kinds, each reassuring her through kindness that whilst the world might be big and full of danger, there are many people in it who can help when you most need it.

This is a stunning book by the incredible artist and illustrator, Rob Ryan.  The artwork alone is a sight to behold; each word and image beautifully paper cut down to the finest detail.  The story itself is lyrical and flows beautifully; a tale depicting the journey towards parenthood with all its highs and lows and everything in between. Poetry and prose combine, with each word literally illustrating the magic of the childlike but utterly insightful narrative.  The mother bird is determined to find out how she can allay her fears, travelling over the widest oceans and unknown lands looking for answers.  The other birds she meets are strange and exotic, each with their own wisdom to share, each showing her kindness.  The mother bird repays the kindnesses she is shown along the way and she finally realises that through being kind, brave and finding hope, she can face her fears.  A Sky Full of Kindness is a heart warming tale about unconditional love, the hopes and fears we have for our children and ultimately shows how kindness can change the world we live in.

This is a must-have book for everyone’s bookshelf!

Victoria Dilly
The Book Activist
January 2017

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