What Stars Are For (Margeaux Davis, Affirm)

What Stars Are For is the first picture book by sewing pattern and soft toy designer Margeaux Davis. The emerging children’s book illustrator’s love for the natural world is informed by her background in environmental education, working as a National Parks ranger. Fans of Down the Road, Little Bee by Sarah Jane Lightfoot will enjoy this uplifting story featuring a range of Australian animals, including Henry, a curious, nervous and observant snail. He spends his days hiding in his shell and the nights alone, exploring the world and wondering one thing: what are stars for? One morning, he decides to come out of his shell and ask. Those he approaches are dismissive and unengaged, their responses prompting him to hide away. Even though he is scared, Henry takes a ‘deep breath’, trying again and again until he finds his answer, as well as a friend. What Stars Are For is a story that promotes nurturing curiosity and discovering courage by facing your fears and finding your people. A perfect gift for shy children who need reassurance and gentle encouragement to find confidence, Davis’s work has a timeless quality that will appeal to parents, grandparents and art lovers.

Books+Publishing reviewer: Baran Rostamian is an emerging writer living in Boorloo and a 2023 recipient of the Green Leaves / Red River poetry manuscript publishing project in partnership with Red River Press. Books+Publishing is Australia’s number-one source of pre-publication book reviews.

Category: Friday Unlocked reviews Reviews