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May 29, 2018forbesrachel rated this title 5 out of 5 stars
In remembrance of the grandfather he loved, Finn builds a boat to find where ocean meets sky, a place which his grandfather described in stories. When he encounters a large catfish, the young boy asks for directions. The answer is vague enough to hook us. From there on out, the boy and fish travel across a magical ocean, seeing sights like dancing jellyfish, which are illustrated on lavishly painted double spreads. Then, up into the sky they float, with other boats and creatures, until they reach the moon where the fish's identity is revealed. Ocean Meets Sky gently walks a child through loss. Finn misses his grandfather, but because he carries his memories within him, he is able to go on one last fantastical journey with him. Terry Fan's precisely chosen words, most of which describe the journey, allow readers to naturally infer a lot more about the boy's feelings than they actually say. This is a journey of healing, so there is a lot going on in Finn's head. He also knows when words aren't needed. Eric Fan beautifully frames each moment, and the silence at one point just lets us soak in the wondrous sight. A mixture of sepia and blue overtones help this book keep its balance between grief and wonder. Whether they've experienced the loss of a loved one or not, Ocean Meets Sky is one picture book that should be read to children. Their imaginations will be enamored by it.