Moon Child
illustrations by
What’s inside...
Moon Child is a poetic exploration of a young child's dreams and nocturnal adventures, as they are transported to a world where they meet a moon bear and journey through the night sky. The book is a celebration of imagination and the wonders of the natural world at night. In the darkness, while you sleep, across night skies, Moon Child creeps around the galaxy of dreams, collecting magic wishing beans. Join Moon Child on a fanciful flight through sleepy skies and calm seas, to sow some magic wishing beans. Ride on the back of a dragon, fly with fairies in a magical forest, and swim with mermaids in this perfect bedtime tale for little dreamers. A soothing bedtime lullaby written by debut picture book author, Sue Hardy-Dawson, with enchanting illustrations by rising star, Carolina Rabei.
Age
3-5
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What did you feel about Moon Child's journey through the night sky? What was your favorite part?
How do you think Moon Child felt when discovering new things in the sky?
If you could meet Moon Child, what would you ask them and why?
What do you think the stars and planets teach Moon Child?
Can you imagine your own adventure in the sky? What would it look like?
Tip: Role play these questions
While discussing the book, maintain eye contact and show genuine interest to encourage your child’s expressions and thoughts.
Use pauses after asking questions to give your child time to think and respond, showing that their thoughts are valued.
Relate the themes of the book to your child’s own experiences, such as a time they discovered something new or felt excited about learning.
Encourage your child to describe scenes from the book using their own imagination, which deepens their engagement and comprehension.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: In 'Moon Child,' the protagonist learns to understand and empathize with characters from different backgrounds and perspectives.
Real-World Application: Children can apply empathy by considering the feelings of friends and classmates, helping to build stronger, more understanding relationships.
Example Lesson: Importance of Curiosity and Exploration
Explanation: The story encourages exploration and curiosity through the protagonist's adventures, emphasizing learning and discovery.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to explore new subjects, ask questions, and engage with their surroundings in a more inquisitive manner.
Example Lesson: Resilience in Adversity
Explanation: The protagonist faces various challenges but learns to overcome them with resilience and determination.
Real-World Application: Children learn to face their own challenges with a positive attitude and understand that perseverance is key to overcoming obstacles.
Example Lesson: Value of Friendship
Explanation: Throughout the book, the importance of friendship is highlighted as the protagonist relies on friends for support and joy.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of building and maintaining friendships, and being a supportive friend in return.
Example Lesson: Creativity and Imagination
Explanation: The narrative of 'Moon Child' is rich with imaginative scenarios that encourage creative thinking.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to use their imagination in play and creative endeavors, enhancing cognitive flexibility and problem-solving skills.