Baby Book Shapes in the sky (Beginner Reader Book, Learning) by Ellie King

There’s something magical about seeing the world through a child’s eyes—where clouds become castles, stars form animals, and the sky is a canvas of endless possibilities. Ellie King’s Baby Book: Shapes in the Sky captures this wonder perfectly, offering young readers (and their caregivers) a charming, interactive introduction to shapes, nature, and creativity.

Designed as a beginner reader book, Shapes in the Sky is more than just a simple educational tool—it’s an invitation to explore, imagine, and bond over the beauty of everyday sights. But does it live up to its promise? Let’s dive into this enchanting little book and see why it might just become a bedtime favorite.

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Shapes in the Sky follows a simple yet engaging structure, guiding children through different shapes they can find in nature—particularly in the sky. From fluffy clouds forming circles and triangles to birds flying in V-shaped formations, the book encourages kids to look up and observe the world around them.

Each page introduces a new shape with bright, appealing illustrations, reinforcing recognition through repetition and playful scenarios. The narrative doesn’t follow a traditional plot but instead creates a gentle, rhythmic exploration that keeps young readers engaged.

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Since this is a concept book rather than a character-driven story, the "characters" are the shapes themselves—each given personality through vibrant illustrations. The clouds, birds, and celestial bodies become playful companions on this learning journey.

What stands out is how Ellie King subtly anthropomorphizes these elements, making them feel alive. A crescent moon smiles, a flock of birds forms a zigzag, and raindrops create dotted lines—each element feels intentional, fostering a child’s sense of connection with nature.

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King’s writing is clear, rhythmic, and perfectly suited for early readers. The sentences are short, often repetitive in a way that reinforces learning without feeling monotonous. The language is lyrical, almost poetic, making it enjoyable for parents to read aloud.

The book’s structure follows a predictable pattern—introduce a shape, show it in the sky, and then encourage the child to find it elsewhere. This technique not only aids memory but also makes the reading experience interactive.

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On the surface, Shapes in the Sky is about shape recognition, but beneath that, it’s a celebration of curiosity and observation. It teaches children to:

• See the extraordinary in the ordinary (a cloud isn’t just a cloud—it’s a shape, a story).
• Engage with nature (looking up at the sky becomes an adventure).
• Develop early literacy skills (through repetition and visual association).

The book also subtly introduces concepts like weather, animals, and spatial awareness, making it a multi-layered learning tool.

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As a parent, I’m always on the lookout for books that hold my child’s attention while also teaching something valuable. Shapes in the Sky did exactly that. My toddler loved pointing at the shapes and then running to the window to see if she could spot similar ones outside.

The illustrations are bright without being overwhelming, and the pacing keeps little ones engaged. It’s also short enough to read multiple times in one sitting—something every parent of a "again, again!"-demanding child will appreciate.

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Compared to other early learning books like Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See? by Bill Martin Jr. or The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle, Shapes in the Sky holds its own with its focus on shapes and nature.

Where it differs is in its minimalist approach—it doesn’t overload with text or complex themes, making it ideal for the youngest readers. It’s more comparable to Round is a Mooncake by Roseanne Thong in its simplicity and educational focus.

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✅ Visually appealing – The illustrations are colorful and engaging.
✅ Interactive – Encourages kids to look for shapes beyond the book.
✅ Perfect length – Short enough for short attention spans.
✅ Educational yet fun – Doesn’t feel like a "lesson."

❌ Limited story depth – If you’re looking for a narrative-driven book, this isn’t it.
❌ Repetition might bore older kids – Best for ages 1-3.

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• Ages 1-4 – Ideal for toddlers just starting to recognize shapes.
• Parents & educators – Great for interactive reading sessions.
• Minimalist book lovers – If you prefer simple, clean designs, this fits perfectly.

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While the book is mostly visual, one lovely recurring line is:

"Look up, little one—what shapes do you see?"

This simple prompt turns reading into an active experience, making it a standout feature.

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While Shapes in the Sky doesn’t delve into cultural specifics, its universal theme of observing nature makes it relatable across different backgrounds. The idea of cloud-gazing and finding shapes is a timeless childhood activity, making the book feel nostalgic even as it educates.

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Ellie King’s Baby Book: Shapes in the Sky is a delightful, well-crafted introduction to shapes and nature. It’s not just a book—it’s an experience, one that encourages kids (and parents) to slow down and appreciate the little wonders above us.

If you’re looking for a gentle, engaging way to teach shapes while fostering a love for the outdoors, this book is a fantastic choice.

🔗 Get the Book: Amazon

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• What shapes have you and your child discovered in the sky?
• Do you prefer concept books like this or story-driven children’s books?
• What other books would you recommend for early shape recognition?

Let’s chat in the comments! 📚✨

Get this book on Amazon

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