Touch the Sky
by Stephanie V. W. Lucianovic; illus. by Chris Park
Preschool, Primary    Carolrhoda    32 pp.
5/24    9781728460451    $18.99

Vern dreams of soaring through the air on the playground swings. If only he could learn to pump his legs! While well-versed in other swinging activities, such as the wind-up and spin-out and belly-down, none gives Vern that feeling of flying. Other kids make it look so easy, while Vern thrashes this way and that trying for takeoff. Luckily, high-spirited Gretchen, a patient and encouraging young guide, comes to his rescue. Readers of all ages will relate to Vern’s experience of mastering something new, all the stops and starts included. Lucianovic’s vigorous text captures the joy of soaring high into the sky on a swing, with a catchy how-to refrain: “Lean / Stretch / Sweep / Pull /Tuck / Swing.” Park’s illustrations are magnetic, drawing viewers’ eyes to each page. Nearly neon colors are softened by the mixed-media, chalk-like style. One particularly captivating spread shows Gretchen swinging high above Vern, with the words try again in large lettering across the two pages. Both friends are depicted with amber skin yet unique features. Vern’s long, straight hair displays several shades of blue, green, and red, while Gretchen wears her purple curls in a bun. Fittingly, the story ends with Vern offering his new knowledge to another young park-goer.

From the July/August 2024 issue of The Horn Book Magazine.