Heather’s Bookshelf: Color the Sky with Song
Author: Brian Forrester
Released: 08/10/24
Genre: YA Fantasy
“You find courage when protecting those you love.”
“Color the Sky with Song” introduces Lucera “Lucy”, a 14-year-old trapped in a remote and mysterious town named Nether.
Her parents lock her up at night, force her to work at a factory, and keep her from speaking to anyone besides her grandfather. She’s the only non-adult in Ether and held to restrictions in her actions and interactions by her non-loving parents.
Her only friend, an anteater she’s named BamBam, and her grandfather, Swings, are her only sources of hope until an opportunity for escape presents itself. Crossing to the other side of the mountains, Lucy and BamBam are rescued by Nico and the Fireballs. Learning of two opposing forces that seemingly control the world around them, she sets out on a journey of truth.
When her journey turns into something much more dangerous, she must realize her place in the universe before it’s too late.
Trigger Warning: violence, child abuse, torture, animal violence
Overall, I really enjoyed this tale. The story is told through the POV of Lucy. Initially she appears much younger than her 14 years, likely related to her isolation. She has a very restricted view of the world and clings to objects like her doll or a book as a lifeline. But when she escapes Nether, her whole world and what she knows of it is thrown into turmoil. She’s an endearing protagonist who you want to succeed. There’s an element of mystery and trying to figure out what’s happening throughout a good portion of the story. It is in this way that it reminded me of several classic YA stories including The Giver and A Wrinkle in Time. The pacing is also excellent throughout with tie-ins from the beginning to the end. There’s also nice little fantasy elements within the story, like the golden apples. Lucy’s friendship with BamBam is a light spot in this story filled with rather dark themes. It’s really the characters and their relationships that drew me into this tale. I will say I did not have a great connection to the Waltzing Matilda, but found the short time Mingus was featured had a great impact. The ending wrapped everything up while also keeping an open opportunity for future stories.
I received a copy of this story in exchange of a fair and honest review.
OVERALL REVIEW:
A YA fantasy highlighted by an endearing protagonist and friendships, fantasy elements, and some dark themes.
Want to learn more about the author?
Check out my interview with Brian Forrester
Interested in checking out the book for yourself?
Find it for purchase here
Interested in submitting your book for review? Visit my review page for guidelines and submission requirements.
