The Keeper of Stars

Gr 1-4–Milo spends his nights, after reading with his mother and tapping his father’s picture ritualistically, helping the Keeper of Stars, a large stoic bear with a star on its forehead. The two spend nights tidying up the sky, washing (occasionally ticklish) stars along with fun things like juggling those stars and cavorting with bats before enjoying cocoa and sandwiches together. Milo then catches a comet home and slides into bed with a very familiar looking stuffed bear and a snoozing mom. Muted but cheerful illustrations show an always-smiling Milo engaging in fun and work, joyfully interacting with laughing stars and helpful owls, while the Keeper of Stars provides a steady, almost parental presence. Milo’s expressions shine, showing mischievousness while sweeping up the stars and pure joy when he dances with them. A gentle bedtime story touching on parental absenteeism with a sweet message that things exist, even when you can’t see them.