Regular readers know that I often feature picture books dealing with tougher topics. But this week, I needed to read a hopeful book that focuses on community, how aspects we share unite us, regardless of species. When I picked up today’s Perfect Picture Book in the Children’s Room of the New York Public Library, I knew I found that book.
Title: Under the Same Sky
Written & Illustrated By: Britta Teckentrup
Publisher/Date: Tiger Tales/2018 (originally published in Great Britain, Caterpillar Books/2017)
Suitable for Ages: 3-7
Themes/Topics: rhyming, shared hopes, shared dreams, community, animals, imagination
Opening:
We live under the same sky…in lands near and far. We live under the same sky…wherever we are.
Brief Synopsis: A lyrical celebration of the bonds that unite us all.
Links to Resources:
- Think of some of the ways that you are the same as a family member, friend, someone you pass on a playground;
- The sun shines during all seasons, all over the world. Draw pictures showing the sun shining on a snowy day, in the desert, on a lake or ocean, by your own home.
Why I Like this Book:
In short, poetic text, using lovely illustrations of different animal species, Teckentrup celebrates the many natural elements that unite the world. A quiet book, Under the Same Sky will be a reassuring bedtime favorite for families with younger children. I especially liked the last spread, showing all of the animals together under a full moon and starlit sky and its message of unity. What a wonderful way to fall asleep, reminded that our hopes and dreams unite us.
The collaged illustrations in soft, pastel hues provide soothing accompaniments to the gentle text. I think kids will enjoy the cut outs, as they follow along on this exploration of community.
A Note about Craft:
Teckentrup uses animals as the main characters in Under the Same Sky. I think this will appeal to young children, especially as many young animals are depicted.
Cut outs are used in the pages to great effect, as phrases, such as that shown above, appear on one page and then after the page turn to emphasize text.
This Perfect Picture Book entry will be added to Susanna Hill’s Perfect Picture Book list. Check out the other great picture books featured there!
Wander, Ponder, Write 
What a beautiful book! I love that cover! It is wonderful what you can find just wandering through the library, isn’t it?
Yes, I love when I have time to browse!
This one looks beautiful. Thanks for sharing.
And thanks for visiting!
Good to see a book about unity and connectivity. I would love reading this one. Excellent choice! I live in Dayton, OH, a few miles from the Oregon District. We need to stand together strong and teach children about kindness, compassion and equality.
I found this book to be soothing after so much awful news. My mother grew up in Dayton, and I have many memories of visiting my grandparents there when I was a child. My thoughts and prayers are with everyone affected.