Come Back, Moon

PreS-K—The moon looms large in children's literature: Frank Asch, Eric Carle, Kevin Henkes, and countless others have paid homage to that fascinating round face in the night sky. In Come Back, Moon, Kherdian and Hogrogian have collaborated on an original story that has the simplicity and resonance of a folktale. Bear is stretched out uncomfortably, head in hand, as a smiling golden moon floats over the blue night and the just-perceptible forest. The accompanying text is refreshingly direct: "Bear couldn't sleep and blamed the light of the moon. So Bear stole the moon." Fox, Skunk, Opossum, Raccoon, and Crow are on the case, consulting wise Owl and using their particular skills to effect a rescue. Hogrogian captures the character of each animal, mood, and scene with disarming expertise. Readers know that it's night, but the darkness has many colors. The brilliant orange of the fox and the dramatic patterning of the skunk add extra contrast to every page. Even the opossum is endearingly drawn. Kherdian is at his poetic best, gracing the tale with few, carefully chosen words. The artwork is beautifully balanced and radiates personality. The combination of great talent, elegant restraint, and exceptional creative decisions has produced a timeless book that will still be enjoyed by the great grandchildren of those who read it today.—Susan Weitz, formerly at Spencer-Van Etten School District, Spencer, NY