The Circles in the Sky

Having long been an illustrator but never a writer, this marks Mountford’s full debut in embracing both roles. With a successful career as a designer and cover illustrator, along with illustrating books for other authors, The Circles in the Sky showcases Mountford’s storytelling talent, making the world of children’s books much richer. The story beautifully honours the cycle of life, as a lone moth helps a lone fox understand the death of a bird. Mountford has shown that great children’s books always write up to their readers and never down.

The tale begins with Fox being awakened by a gathering of birds outside his den. Intrigued, he follows them and discovers the lifeless body of a bird. Through stunning digital art, expertly manipulated to guide our gaze along Fox’s journey, we witness the abundance of life—a sight that includes salmon fighting the currents on their quest to create new life and felled trees making way for new landscapes.

Perplexed and ignorant about the unmoving bird, Fox seeks an explanation from Moth, who attempts to describe death metaphorically. Fox’s childlike questions reveal a sense of curiosity and innocence, mirroring the young reader’s perspective: ‘Bird isn’t here anymore.’ ‘What do you mean, Moth? Bird is right here, all bird-shaped.’ It becomes clear that Moth’s metaphorical answers lack the clarity that honesty and truth can provide. Eventually, Fox becomes frustrated, demanding that Moth ‘tell the truth.’ Through this experience, both creatures learn something about themselves and the world they coexist in.

It’s worth noting that the world of children’s books in the U.K. often avoids tackling significant subjects, unlike its European counterparts. Rather than shying away from or obliquely addressing them, The Circles in the Sky embraces these themes with a visually stunning book that offers a touching and truthful exploration of life and death in the natural world. It opens the door for readers of all ages to ask similarly profound questions.