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Five Faves: Moon Picture Books

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The moon is a familiar and magical sight each night as it appears brightly in the dark sky. For many the moon is a comfortable companion that reassures them as they fall asleep and for some it is the inspiration that sparks their imagination. This list of moon picture books is for any child who dreams about the moon and loves to read stories of the magic and possibilities the moon holds.

The Moon Moved In 
Written by Sue Soltis
Illustrated by Sonia Sanchez
San Francisco: Chronicle books, 2025. Picture Book.

A young girl named Stella is wishing for a friend. One night, her wish comes true when the Moon decides to move into the empty house next door. The moon and Stella both share a love for gardening and they soon become best friends. However, the Moon's absence from the night sky begins to affect the earth as the tides stop moving and the planet develops a wobble. Stella realizes that as much as she loves having her new friend, she must help the Moon return to its proper place.

A sweet story that is heartfelt, as well as educational.

Moon Song
By Michael Goade
New York: Little, Brown and Company, 2025. Picture Book.

A young Tlingit girl helps her younger cousin overcome his fear of the dark by telling him a story about the winter night. She takes him on a journey through the forest, and shows him the beauty that exists there after dark --from the northern lights dancing in the sky to the way life sparkles in the water. She helps her young cousin realize that the darkness isn't scary, but an important part of life.

A stunning book that uses elements of Tlingit tradition, while incorporating beautiful illustrations of a wintry evening. Readers will appreciate the beauty of the illustrations, while reading the lyrical text about the peace that can be found in the stillness of the natural world. 

The Tugboat and the Silver Moon
Written by Kersten Hamilton
Illustrated by Barry Gott
New York: Viking, 2024. Picture Book.

A large cargo ship is stuck in a canal, and hardworking tugboat Tug, as well as diggers and dredgers, are trying to free the ship. For seven days everyone works to free the ship, but nothing seems to be helping --until the seventh night when the moon shines at its fullest. The moon in the sky creates a tide from the ocean that helps float the ship free. Once the ship is free, Tug and the others are able to help guide it out of the canal and on its way.

This story is for readers who love big machines and working vehicles. It is also a story that teaches the science behind tides and the moon, and is a great bedtime story for anyone who loves a moon story with a lesson. Inspired by a true event. 

How to Reach the Moon
Written by Nicholas Schuff
Illustrated by Ana Sender
New York: Amazon Crossing Kids, 2025. Picture Book.

A young boy named Emilio is visiting his "abuelo" (grandfather). One night, during a moonlight dinner, Emilio asks his abuelo about the dark side of the moon. Abuelo tells Emilio all about the many faces of the moon, and then asks him if he would like a chance to meet the moon?  Of course, Emilio says yes, and together they enter the forest to begin a moon adventure.

This sweet story has beautiful illustrations that tell a silent story that blends seamlessly with the text. A magical story that celebrates the special bond between grandfather and grandchild.

Change'e on the Moon
Written by Katrina Moore
Illustrated by Cornelia Li
New York: HarperCollins Publishers, 2024. Picture Book.

Once upon a time there was a beautiful girl named Chang'e who loved her husband, Hou Yi, deeply. One day, ten blazing suns appeared in the sky. Hou Yi, who was a great archer, shoots arrows into the sky and brings down nine of the suns, saving the land. In appreciation of his heroism, the Empress of Heaven gives him an elixir of immortality. Hou Yi doesn't want to leave his beautiful wife, so they decide to hide the drink and live their lives together as humans.

Later Hou Yi's jealous apprentice decides he is going to steal the drink and become a god. Before he has a chance to steal the drink, Chang'e drinks it, turning herself into a god. Her sacrifice saves the people and the earth. 

Today on the 15th day of the 8th lunar moon, her sacrifice is celebrated with the Mid-Autumn festival. This captivating folktale retelling is a perfect book to read during Mid-Autumn festival celebrations to learn about its traditions and past.
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