Circling the Stars

LoveReading4Kids Says

Highly readable, Laura Sheldon’s verse novel is a sensitive exploration of grief, and a convincing, tender coming of age story.

Ani (Anwen) likes to sit in her window at night looking out at the streets beyond. She notices the boy from number 56, newly moved in, sneaking out and the next night follows him to discover that he has befriended a fox and is feeding it. The two young people form a friendship, spiky at first, but which becomes increasingly important to each of them.

Equally important to both is their growing bond with the fox, which they name Estrella. These nighttime excursions provide Ani with space she needs as her home life is disrupted, her dad moving away with his new partner. It’s important for Nando too, as he copes with grief following the death of his father.

It’s beautifully observed and perfectly told, the verse carrying readers and conveying, unobtrusively, the depth of the emotions it is describing. A book that repays slow reading and one that very many readers will find rewarding. If this inspires them to seek out more gently, moving verse novels, When the Birds Wake Up by Jessica Mary Ellis is recommended too.

Reviewed by Andrea Reece
Andrea Reece has spent almost her entire working life in children’s books, first as publisher, latterly as consultant, project manager and critic.
More reviews by Andrea Reece

About Circling the Stars

Dad has moved out and Ani is struggling to accept his absence. Her mysterious neighbour, Nando, and his secret nocturnal trips provide a welcome distraction.

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