That Star is Running Away (Paperback) (ISBN-13: 9781923750173)

One peaceful night, Ellie the curious ginger kitten and Ollie the gentle golden retriever snuggle into their beds beneath a blanket of stars. The world is quiet, calm, and full of wonder. Suddenly, a bright streak of light flashes across the sky, and Ellie gasps in amazement, "That star is running away!"

With patient paws and a twinkle in his eyes, Ollie gently explains the magic of shooting stars. As Ellie listens, she discovers that stars don't really run away - they sparkle, streak, and sometimes fall across the night sky as meteors, creating breathtaking moments that have inspired stories and wishes for generations. Through this magical experience, Ellie learns about the beauty of the night sky and the joy of curiosity, imagination, and discovery.

That Star Is Running Away by Marina Swan is a heartwarming and educational children's book designed for ages 4-8. Combining real-life photography with gentle storytelling, this story introduces young readers to basic astronomy concepts in an engaging and age-appropriate way. Through Ellie and Ollie's night-time adventure, children are encouraged to look up, ask questions, and develop a sense of wonder about the world beyond them.

Perfect for home reading, classrooms, and school libraries, this book aligns naturally with the Early Years Learning Framework. It supports key developmental outcomes such as curiosity, confidence, communication skills, and an understanding of the natural world. Teachers and caregivers can use the story to spark discussions about the night sky, stars, and space, while also encouraging children to share their own thoughts, questions, and dreams.

A unique feature of this book is the interactive colouring-in format. On the left-hand page, children can colour their own version of each night-time scene, while the right-hand page displays the real-life photograph of Ellie, Ollie, and the star-filled sky. This side-by-side layout encourages children to match colours, develop fine motor skills, and engage creatively with the story, strengthening both observation and artistic expression.

At the back of the book, activity and discussion questions support comprehension and extend learning beyond the story. These prompts encourage children to reflect on what they have learned, think more deeply about space and imagination, and share their ideas with parents, teachers, or peers. This makes the book ideal for guided reading, classroom learning, and interactive discussions.

Through Ellie and Ollie's gentle and magical adventure, young readers are invited to dream big, stay curious, and find wonder in the world above them. The story beautifully blends science and imagination, showing that learning can be both meaningful and magical.

Whether you are a parent, teacher, librarian, or caregiver, That Star Is Running Away is a calming and inspiring addition to any child's library. Through the warm storytelling of Marina Swan, children will discover that sometimes, all it takes is one look at the night sky to spark a lifetime of curiosity and dreams.