Blue Sky White Stars
Sarvinder Naberhaus, Author
Kadir Nelson, Illustrator
Dial Books for Young Readers, Fiction, Jun. 13, 2017
Suitable for Ages: 4-8 (and adults)
Themes: American Flag, Symbols, Landscape, Landmarks, Diversity
Book Jacket Synopsis: Blue Sky White Stars is an ode to our nation’s greatest and most enduring symbol — our flag.
A spare, poetic text has inspired the gorgeous paintings by the acclaimed Kadir Nelson. His artwork brims with iconic American imagery, including majestic landscapes and the beauty and diversity of its people.
From an image of the Statue of Liberty to a depiction of civil rights marchers banded together, the art for each spread depicts a sweeping view of America — its strength and inclusiveness — from sea to shining sea.
Visually stunning and deeply evocative, this book celebrates our country’s history and symbols and their promise for all Americans.
Why I love this book:
This timely book is a beautiful celebration of the American flag. It is an unwavering symbol of our freedom and a reminder of the growing pains we’ve weathered throughout our history. The book is meant for children, but will also appeal to adults. Naberhaus’ text is powerful and lyrical, with each word carefully chosen and many examples of lovely word play — “Sew Together / Won Nation” showing Betsy Ross stitching the flag, and “So Together / One Nation,” depicting the cultural diversity that makes America special. Nelson’s oil paintings are exquisite. The landscapes are breathtaking. There is so much detail etched into the diverse faces of generations of immigrants who call America their home. This is the perfect gift book to celebrate our history this 4th of July with children, family and friends.
Resources: Make sure you check out A Note from the Author and A Note From the Illustrator at the end of the book. And be sure to hang your flag outside this weekend.
Sarvinder Naberhaus immigrated to Iowa from India when she was four years old. She was an elementary teacher and media librarian before she began writing. Her books include Boom Boom, and Lines. Visit her at her website.
Kadir Nelson is an acclaimed artist and the illustrator of several New York Times bestselling picture books, including his authorial debut We Are the Ship: The Story of Negro League Baseball, If You Plant a Seed, Nelson Mandela, I Have a Dream: Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Henry’s Freedom Box: A True Story from the Underground Railroad, Moses: When Harriet Tubman Led Her People to Freedom, and many more. Visit him at his website.
Children's Books Heal 
Sounds like an excellent book for this time of year, but really EVERY time of year in this rather divided nation. I’d like my grandkids to read this. Right now, they’re rather disgusted with what they see in the news (and they’re all under 9!). I try to explain patriotism to them. This book may help.
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It really is a timely book for any occasion. I like your idea of using it to explain patriotism to your grandchildren.
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How perfect for July 4th weekend! Thanks, Patricia.
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A beautiful book that celebrates our history and diversity.
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A great rememberance that the U stands for United, not Divided.
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Timely comment and observation! Thank you!
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I was just pouring over this book at the bookstore. Kadir Nelson is my #1 favorite illustrator. He is amazing!!
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Yes, he’s my favorite illustrator! And, his illustrations in Naberhaus’ book are breathtaking.
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Beautiful book. I love the art. A perfect selection to celebrate the 4th of July.
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Yes, I thought it was a great time to review this beautiful book. It is timely and relevant throughout the year and can be used in so many ways in the classroom.
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Fingers crossed. I’m going to the library shortly, and I hope, hope, hope they have this book.
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Good luck. I checked and my library has his book.
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A perfect choice for this weekend & every day! Can’t wait to read this; we need togetherness now more than ever.
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Yes, I think it is a great book about diversity and our history as a country. No matter what, history shows that we keep moving forward.
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I wrote a book about Kadir Nelson. AMAZING artist. Thanks for the timely book that celebrates the diversity in our country.
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He is amazing. Will have to check out your book. Thanks for letting me know.
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Great pick for the holiday weekend. Thanks for the post.
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Yes, with all that is going on today, I thought the 4th of July would be a great time to share this moving book. You’d love the text and wordplay as well as the beautiful oil illustrations!
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What a gorgeous book and perfect post for the 4th of July!
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Yes, it is a feast for the eyes and perfect for the 4th of July.
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That cover is beautiful. Kadir Nelson’s art is always a draw. Thanks for the review…it’s on my must read list.
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You’d also be intrigued with the author’s writing style. I would love to own a piece of Nelson’s work. But, I do own many of the books he’s written and illustrated. Nelson Mandela is my favorite.
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I, too, am completely captured by Kadir Nelson’s art! Looks beautiful!
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I know, it is captivating! You’d also enjoy Naberhaus’ beautiful, spare text!
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Great wordplay! It looks beautiful! And so important these days to highlight the strengths and successes of our nation and its diverse citizens.
Happy 4th of July!
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Yes, I loved the wordplay and how each word was specially chosen. Nelson’s illustrations are stunning.
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Bellisima!
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I agree!
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We have enjoyed several books illustrated by Kadir Nelson, but I hadn’t heard of this one. Thanks for sharing!
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I’m glad you enjoyed the review. Great gift book. Saw it promoted in a book store today. Good read all year long.
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Wow! Beautiful and timely. Thanks for sharing Pat.
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You are welcome! It is a beautiful book!
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This sounds lovely, Patricia, and just in time for celebrating Independence Day. Happy Independence Day!
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It is such a timely and gorgeous book!
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I have my flag posted and thank you for this post. A timely tribute to the colors of our country.
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Me too! This really is a beautiful book for both kids and adults.
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Sounds interesting!
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It is an absolutely beautiful tribute to our nation and all that we hold dear. The text is beautiful and the illustrations breathtaking!
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I’ve always been impressed with Kadir Nelson’s illustrations but the author is new to me so thank you for bringing this to my attention. This book sounds lovely and very timely in today’s world.
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The author’s words are impressive! I loved this book!
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