Lifting the Sky

A parent would reach for this book when their child is struggling to find their footing in a new environment or feeling like their unique talents make them an outsider. It is particularly resonant for families who have recently moved or for children who feel a deep, almost spiritual connection to animals and the natural world. The story follows Blue, a young girl with a gift for healing animals, as she navigates the challenges of a new life and forms a transformative bond with an Indian boy who shares her reverence for the land. Through its gentle exploration of empathy and belonging, the book validates the feelings of loneliness that often accompany major life transitions. It is ideally suited for readers aged 8 to 12, offering a blend of realistic emotional struggles and a touch of the extraordinary. Parents will appreciate how the story models cross-cultural friendship and the importance of finding a community that values one's true self, ultimately providing comfort and a sense of hope for any child searching for their place in the world.