Book Review — Between Sea and Sky

I would like to call Between Sea and Sky by Nicola Penfold a ‘brave book’.

This is the first book for young readers that I’ve come across which looks climate change in the eye. (I would love to read more middle grade fiction that deals with ecological issues, if you have a recommendation!)

The story is set in a future that felt very real and possible to me. Oceans have flooded so much of the land. A small family lives on an ‘island’ made of boats and metal tied together, free but alone. A larger, land-based community toils under strong governmental rules. Only one child per household. Points off for misbehaving. And limited food, lots of efforts in growing towers.

Despite this stark picture, there is so much hope in this book. The sea comes alive, so magically. The sea children and land children come together, sharing hearts and hopes. Though the depiction of the future is a chilling one, the story gives us readers lots of heartfelt moments, even joy. And there is a beautiful metaphor for a new, recovering society …

but I can’t give it away, because it is revealed so cleverly in the story. I will let you read the book and be surprised.