The minimal blue, grey and white palette of this story of a lonely boy who is befriended by a bird is perfect for a moving tale that deals with sadness, isolation, threat and death.

But despite these dark themes its overall message is a positive one of friendship, fun and hope for the future.

The stylised images of the round-headed, big-eyed children work well and the bluebird in particular is very expressively drawn. Expect to shed a tear…