Beneath the Swirling Sky is captivating middle-grade fantasy novel that blends art, adventure, and mystery.
“Of course I’m scared.” She looked away. “But fear shouldn’t get to decide what I do.”
Author: Carolyn Leiloglou
Genre: Middle Grade, Fantasy, Adventure
Recommend: Yes!
Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. If you purchase using one of these links, I make a small commission at no additional cost to you. This helps me keeps things free for you, and who doesn’t love free stuff. For more information, see my disclosures.
Overview: Beneath the Swirling Sky
Beneath the Swirling Sky transports readers into a world where paintings are more than just beautiful images—they’re gateways to adventure. There is a house full of paintings, a missing sister, and a family secret that sends a boy and his cousin into a world of fantasy and adventure where art is the key to unraveling a family secret and rescuing a number of children.
Summary
Vincent has done everything he can to avoid art. After that incident, he refuses to do anything with art. But when he and his sister, Lili are sent to their great-uncle’s house for the summer, Vincent must face the very thing he has avoided in order to save his sister.
Vincent discovers family secrets, confronting fears, finding courage, and traveling through art. Jump into a world where paintings come to life, and art is more powerful than he ever imagined.
Key Themes for Beneath the Swirling Sky
- The Power of Art: The novel explores how art connects people across time and space, making history feel alive.
- Family and Legacy: Vincent’s journey is as much about accepting his family’s artistic heritage as it is about rescuing Lili.
- Courage and Self-Discovery: Through his adventure, Vincent learns bravery isn’t just about facing danger—it’s about embracing who you are.
- Underlying Themes: Adoption, homeschool and road school, and fear leads to a lot of bad decisions.
Who Should Read Beneath the Swirling Sky?
This is a great book for middle grade readers who love fantasy and adventure. Fans that enjoy the Wingfeather Saga and The Chronicles of Narnia will enjoy this blend of art and magic. It is an inspiring story of a reluctant heroes discovering their hidden potential.
If I were rating this book like a movie, I would give it a G to PG rating. The book is a clean middle school read, so no language. But some of the scenes may be a little intense for young readers and she does discuss nudity in art. However, I thought she handle this subject incredibly well and in an age appropriate way for middle school readers.
Final Verdict
Beneath the Swirling Sky is a really fun book. I enjoyed reading and going on an imaginative adventure. It is a book that celebrates the magic of art, family, and courage. I thoroughly enjoyed the story and look forwarding to handing it to my middle grader.
This is the first book in the series, so I can’t wait to continue the adventure with Vincent and Georgia.
0 Comments