Review of Touch the Sky by Anna Lucianovic
Sometimes, a book grabs you not just for its story, but for the memories it stirs up. When I picked up Touch the Sky by Anna Lucianovic, I was instantly transported back to my childhood playground, where swings were the promise of soaring dreams and limitless possibilities. This charming children’s book perfectly captures the essence of that exhilarating yet frustrating moment when you first learn to pump your legs on a swing. It reminded me of Robert Louis Stevenson’s beautiful lines about the joy of swinging, yet Lucianovic takes the experience a step further, embracing the messiness of growing up and learning something new.
Meet Vern, a swing enthusiast who can’t quite conquer the art of pumping his legs. He flings himself into the swing with abandon, but without that crucial skill, he’s stuck grounded. It’s a lovely metaphor for childhood as a whole—filled with delightful excitement yet punctuated by the inevitable struggles of learning. When Gretchen enters the scene, she offers a glimmer of hope, providing encouragement and tips. What follows is a journey not just about mastering a skill but navigating the often-frustrating terrain of perseverance.
One of the most striking elements of Lucianovic’s writing is her ability to articulate Vern’s frustrations. I felt my own heart race in moments when he wanted to give up, echoing that familiar struggle we’ve all faced in trying to learn something challenging. Her phrasing—“Giving up felt easier than trying again”—resonated deeply, reminding me of my own childhood hurdles, whether it was riding a bike or mastering a puzzle. This emotional grounding creates a genuine connection between Vern and the reader, making his journey relatable and authentic.
The illustrations by Chris Park deserve a standing ovation as well. Using a mixed-media approach that almost feels like crayons and pastels, Park infuses the book with a vivid palette that breathes life into Vern’s world. The way his hair dances with shades of blue and pink is simply enchanting, and capturing the swing from angles that throw light and shadow into mesmerizing effects brings depth to the narrative. I found myself pausing on pages just to marvel at the artistry, which elevates the reading experience from merely visual to a multilayered feast for the senses.
For me, the pinnacle of Touch the Sky comes not just from Vern’s triumph but from a poignant moment of connection with another child. As he finally masters pumping, he shares that knowledge and encourages a younger child: “It feels hard until you get it, and then it’s not . . . Do you want to learn how?” This moment embodies the heart of the story—a celebration of not just individual achievement but the joy of sharing that achievement with others. It’s a reminder that while growth can be personal, it can also foster connection.
I believe Touch the Sky will resonate with parents, educators, and children alike. It’s a captivating story that perfectly articulates the challenges of childhood while wrapping them in warmth and humor. For anyone looking to introduce young readers to the joys and frustrations of learning, this book is an essential addition to their shelves.
In reflecting on my reading experience, I felt a radiant echo of my own childhood, tied up in how something as simple as a swing could symbolize growth, friendship, and discovery. If you’re looking for a book that not only entertains but also offers valuable life lessons, I wholeheartedly recommend diving into Touch the Sky. You—and any child in your life—will be grateful for the journey.