Mini Review: A Moon of My Own

December 9, 2016
A Moon of My Own Book Cover A Moon of My Own
Jennifer Rustgi
Picture Book
Dawn Publications
September 1st, 2016
Paperback
32
Owned
Ashley White

An imaginative young girl travels the world with her faithful companion, the moon. In her enchanted adventure she visits all seven continents while the moon goes through its cycle of phases as portrayed in silhouetted art. "Explore More" sections for kids and adults offer information and activities on phases of the moon and other aspects of astronomy and geography.

a-moon-of-my-own-beginning

When this book arrived on my doorstep, I knew it was something special.

Inspired by her daughter asking, “Mama, why does the Moon always follow me?” author Jennifer Rustgi explores this idea within the pages of A Moon of One’s Own. A young girl in goulashes and carrying a stick is wandering the world having a conversation with the moon. She asks if the Moon is lonely or playing hide and seek. She compliments it’s brightness and appreciates the aurora borealis. A heart warming short story, this is perfect for bedtime.a-moon-of-my-own-paris

I adore the artwork of this book. The large glossy pages jumped out at me, but in a muted way. I was immediately captured by Ashley White‘s color pallet and use of silhouette. Each page shows the protagonist and a setting in silhouette against dark purples and blues of the night sky. The most beautiful part, however, is how the sky interacts with the colors. White for the stars, the moon, and clouds appear on each page, but in a very different way. I appreciate how White draws subtle attention to the sky being different yet the same in every part of the world.

The book concludes with 4 pages labeled “Explore More”. These segments provide educational enhancements appropriate for children, parents, and teacher. The For Kids section actually called out a number of things I hadn’t noticed! For example, throughout the pages of the book the moon is changing phases in the appropriate order. How did I not notice that the first time I read it?! And the For Teachers and Parents section provides adults easy ways to support curiosity around the moon through activities and facts.a-moon-of-my-own-explore

This book packs a lot in its short 32 pages. It’s beautiful, educational, and perfect to help children get drowsy for bedtime. If you or your children have any interest in the Moon, I strongly encourage you to read A Moon of One’s Own.

I received a copy of this book from the author for review. Learn more about Jennifer and Ashley on the book’s website and Ashley’s design page.

4 stars

6 Comments

  • Books, Vertigo and Tea December 9, 2016 at 11:27 am

    This is gorgeous! I love this so much. I wish my kids were younger so they could still appreciate this stuff. Suggested age range? I know other kids 😉

    • Jackie B December 11, 2016 at 10:12 pm

      The back cover recommends this book for children ages 4-10. I think that 10 might be a little high for a picture book, but I don’t have much experience with kids… I could be wrong. My gut says smart 3-7 year olds are the right audience.

  • Amanda @Cover2CoverMom December 12, 2016 at 8:40 pm

    This looks like a beautiful picture book! I would probably say you are right with the 3-7 age range, however with the “Explore More” section could still appeal to older kids. My son often likes to read picture books to his little sister, so it is nice they included things that appeal to a wide age range.

    Fabulous review Jackie! They always blow me away.

    • Jackie B December 15, 2016 at 5:37 pm

      That must be so adorable! The Explore More section sounds like it also might be an opportunity for an older child to teach a younger, now that you’ve pointed that out to me. I was surprised at how much I personally learned from the back of the book, too. O_o

  • closetreaders December 31, 2016 at 2:53 pm

    Hi I was wondering how I would contact you?

    • Jackie B December 31, 2016 at 6:09 pm

      You can either use the Contact Me link on the top menu, or you can email me: jackieb at deathbytsundoku dot com. I look forward to hearing from you both! Happy New Year.

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