The tiny star by Mem Fox

Illus. by Freya Blackwood. Puffin, 2019. ISBN: 9780670078127.
(Age: 6-13 years). Highly Recommended. Themes: Family, Death, Grieving, Cycle of life, Community. The tiny star written by celebrated Adelaide author Mem Fox is a unique and touching story that describes the cycle of life in a beautifully illustrated picture book. The analogy of the star falling to earth and over the course of the story moving through life stages until its passing, provides a gentle and heart-warming look at life and death. Many families explain the passing of loved ones to children by telling them that they are always with us as a star above in the heavens.
At each stage of life, family is always present and the love and joy shines through. The clever muted tones of the illustrations by renowned Australian illustrator Freya Blackwood add to the flickering memories of the story as the cycle of life progresses. The use of the star end papers image throughout the story as a baby wrap, a cape, a shawl, a scarf and a blanket connects the journey from beginning to end. The subdued yet detailed illustrations on each page entice you to explore them again and again as you are drawn to reread the text.
Mem Fox and Freya Blackwood have sensitively shared the story of the passing of time and the memories created through simple text and illustrations that will capture the interest of readers time and time again.
Kathryn Beilby