Books of the Year, The Guardian

A Way to the Stars

Illustrated by Gill Smith

An enchanting and heart-warming story between a father and son, that will make you want to reach for stars.

Joe wants to find a way to the stars. With the help of his dad, he builds a ladder, a tower, even a rocket to go up, up, up… Oh no! Crash, bang, wallop! What next?

Together, the pair jump on pogo sticks and build sheds to paint their dreams and find a way. An uplifting and magical tale of sky-high courage, imagination and the bond between father and son that will make your heart soar. Written by internationally acclaimed author David Almond and brought to glorious life by award-winning illustrator Gill Smith in their first collaboration.

Age range: 5-7

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Publication date: 06/02/25

Publisher: Walker Books

Reviews for A Way to the Stars

Gently funny, emotionally warm, this is a reminder of how important the bond between parent and child can be.

‘a soaring story of the loving bond between parent and child… a sheer delight.’

Books of the Year, The Guardian.

‘An uplifting story featuring a child with big dreams and playful, responsive parenting.’

Kirkus Reviews (starred review)

‘In a world where connections are increasingly digital, this story serves as a reminder that the strongest bonds are formed through shared dreams, play, and the simple joy of being together.’

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