When Moon Became the Moon
What’s inside...
Meet Moon! Follow along as she guides us through her origin and her purpose in this charming and humorous nonfiction picture book. Following the success of When Cloud Became a Cloud, Rob Hodgson presents his next long-form picture book about the moon's origin and phases. This delightful exploration both informs and entertains, helping young readers make sense of the world around them. Narrated by the protagonist, Moon, in eleven short chapters, the book features text bubbles and vignettes that add wit, style, and humor. The colorful, whimsical art immediately connects with young audiences, providing a sense of accomplishment in devouring this scientifically accessible book.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
3-5
Length
65 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think the Moon felt when it first shone in the sky?
How do you think the Moon changes the way the world looks at night?
Why do you think the Moon is important to the Earth?
What would you do if you were the Moon for one night?
How do you think the story would change if the Moon never appeared?
Tip: Role play these questions
Begin by reading the book together and let your child reflect on the illustrations and events. Show genuine curiosity about their thoughts and feelings regarding the story. Use the illustrations in the book as a visual aid to guide the discussion, pointing out details that might evoke emotional responses or thoughts. Encourage your child to imagine beyond the story, asking what they would do in similar situations. Lastly, relate the Moon’s experiences to real-life scenarios to help them connect deeper with the content.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of curiosity and exploration
Explanation: The protagonist, Moon, embarks on a journey to discover how she can shine brighter, illustrating the theme of seeking knowledge and self-discovery.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to ask questions and explore new ideas, fostering a lifelong love for learning.
Example Lesson: Understanding and embracing differences
Explanation: As Moon interacts with different celestial bodies, each with unique traits, children learn the value of diversity and acceptance.
Real-World Application: This helps children appreciate individual differences in people around them, promoting inclusivity and empathy.
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of challenges
Explanation: Moon faces several setbacks on her quest, but she persists until she finds her true shine, depicting resilience.
Real-World Application: Children learn to persevere through difficulties, understanding that setbacks can lead to growth and self-improvement.
Example Lesson: The joy of sharing achievements
Explanation: When Moon finally shines bright, she shares her light with everyone, demonstrating the joy of sharing one’s accomplishments.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to celebrate their successes with others, enhancing their social interactions and emotional bonds.