Picture Book Review: All the Stars in the Sky

All the Stars in the Sky is a beautifully illustrated picture book that explores themes of community, family, and the importance of working together. With its warm, inviting cover and textured illustrations (some resembling delicate beadwork) this story invites young readers to think about all the ways we contribute to the world around us. Read on for a spoiler-free review of why All the Stars in the Sky is such a meaningful read for families.

Publisher provided a ARC for review, however all thoughts and opinions our own. This post contains affiliate links.  We earn a small commission for items purchased.

In All the Stars in the Sky, a young boy named Clay learns an important lesson about community and how working together strengthens everyone. When he asks his elisi (grandmother) for help to be named star of the week at school, he is surprised to hear from his elisi that no one person is more important than the family and community around them. Through Clay’s eyes, readers are invited to think about how our individual actions connect to those around us and why caring for our communities is essential for survival.

The illustrations in All the Stars in the Sky are very pretty, reminiscent of bold watercolor paintings, with some pages featuring textured elements that look like beads carefully applied to the page. Illustrator Winona Nelson’s Ojibwe-inspired art adds a handcrafted feel that touches on the story’s Cherokee roots. It’s interesting to me that the author is focusing on community at this moment, in a time where people are looking towards their community for support and guidance. Children always hear that they as an individual are important but lessons on community being just as important are clearly laid out in this picture book.

Perfect for families, classrooms, or as a thoughtful picture book for Indigenous Peoples Day, All the Stars in the Sky is a gentle yet reminder that we all light up the sky together.

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