Another lovely story from K. O’Neill! I think the ending felt a little sudden to me based off of the book's description, but had I not read that first I don’t think I would’ve felt the same. The color palette of soft blues and greens really lends itself to the open and airy feeling of the landscapes. As Rowan and Leone travel, the full page and two page spreads of illustrations are particularly moving and expressive, even when they serve as a pause between chapters. Rowan and Leone’s journey of discovery within themselves and with others is very sweetly done, and I look forward to giving this a reread when the book is out!

Another gentle, lovely story from K. O'Neill. This one focuses on finding yourself with some trans-associated subplots. We will be purchasing this one for our library for sure.

A gentle, soft story of figuring out who you are and who you want to be. As with most of K. O'Neill's books, this is a sweet story that focuses more on characters and their interactions than action or plot. If you want something plot-heavy, this is not it, but if you want something where characters have a lot of conversations amidst gorgeously drawn scenery, then I would absolutely recommend this one. The story was lovely, the art was beautiful, and I would absolutely recommend this for middle graders and adults alike.

This is a really lovely book by K. O'Neill. I love the look of failing but finding yourself again through self exploration.
The illustrations are really beautiful too, just like O'Neill's other books.
A must read!

Thanks NetGalley for this ARC.

A charming and sweet story about a ranger meets a sheep hearder and their unlikely relationship, filled with soft moments, growth, and so much more. Rowan has always wanted to be a ranger, someone to protect their village alongside their flying horse Kes, yet when in attempt to show their worth, they get Kes injured.... Rowan becomes unsure of if they are capable of protecting everyone. All the while Rowan meets Leone, a lackadasical sheep hearder who wants to become a musician. Leone and Rowan begin an unlikely friendship and as they begin to journey together and help Kes heeal, something in Rowan begins to heal as well. Their friendship begins to grow into something more but will Rowan be able to leave Leone once Kes is healed? This was such a soft and sweet read, the artwork is so charming and beautiful, and the tender moments were amazing. i've been a huge fan of this author for a while and this was a wonderful story to read. It really taps into a soft spot in your heart and I can't recommend this book enough!!

Release Date: March 4,2025

Publication/Blog: Ash and Books (ash-and-books.tumblr.com)

*Thanks Netgalley and Random House Children's | Random House Graphic for sending me an arc in exchange for an honest review*