I'll Catch the Moon
on Goodreads (42)
What’s inside...
The moon floats outside a young girl's window, and she imagines building a ladder to outer space, going up and up until she can hold it in her hands. Crews uses photo-collage images to take readers on a dream-like journey of discovery.
Age
6-7
Length
1 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Young Girl
Discussion points
How do you think the boy felt when he was trying to catch the moon?
What would you do if you could play with the moon?
Why do you think the moon is important in the story?
Can you think of other stories where the moon plays a special part?
How do the pictures help tell the story of the boy and the moon?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before reading the book, ask your child what they know about the moon and share some facts to spark their interest.
Encourage your child to describe the pictures and relate them to the story to enhance their understanding and engagement.
While discussing the book, relate the story to personal experiences, like a time when your child wanted something out of reach.
After reading, spend some time gazing at the moon together, if possible, to make a real-world connection.
Ask your child to imagine and draw their own story about catching or playing with the moon, using the book’s themes as inspiration.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Pursuing dreams
Explanation: The protagonist’s journey to catch the moon symbolizes relentless ambition and imagination.
Real-World Application: Children learn to set high goals and use their creativity to achieve them, understanding that no dream is too big when pursued with determination.
Example Lesson: Overcoming obstacles
Explanation: As the character faces challenges in trying to catch the moon, the story highlights the importance of persistence and problem-solving.
Real-World Application: Kids are encouraged to persist despite difficulties and to think creatively to overcome obstacles they face in their daily activities.
Example Lesson: The importance of friendship
Explanation: Throughout the journey, the protagonist receives help and support from friends, showcasing the power of collaboration.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of teamwork and helping one another, fostering social skills and cooperative play in their interactions with peers.
Example Lesson: Joy in the journey
Explanation: The narrative places emphasis on the fun and excitement during the quest, rather than just the goal itself.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to find happiness and value in the experiences they have every day, not just in the achievement of a goal.