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How The Moon Regained Her Shape - Review
By Cynthia Kirkeby
May 1, 2007, 06:37 PST
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A new children's picture book, How the Moon Regained Her Shape combines a story of why the moon waxes and wanes with how harsh words can effect a person's self esteem. In this picture book, the sun says harsh words to a high-spirited moon. Moon's spirit is crushed and as she becomes more depressed, she also shrinks more and more until she's barely visible.
With the help of some friends, she comes to realize that the words of the sun should not effect her so much. She has a place in the world as much as he does, and Moon has many friends that care about her and appreciate her light.
As she regains her self esteem, she also regains the strength of her light, and she once again begins to dance across the sky.
This delightful story by Janet Ruth Heller is well written, and should be perfect for kids from 6-10. The illustrator, Ben Hodson, has created an interesting look based on Indian and southwest design patterns and simple, yet texture rich illustrations.
An added bonus in this book can be found in the back of book after the story ends. There is a special section For Creative Minds which has a glossary of moon terms, a Lunar Calendar Project, a glossary of Native American terms for the moon, and Edible Moon Cookies Project, and a diagram of moon phases. All of which adds up to an interesting exploration for kids and parents alike.
An even more extensive set of worksheets for this book can be downloaded in PDF format from their website (we've included it as a sample here). These collections of materials for "creative minds" is one of my favorite features from this publisher. Each of their books has materials that tie into science and math curriculum. I would love to see them expand their materials to also include history and the arts.
This is definitely a children's book that many kids will want to read over and over, and it's a great way to open the door to a conversation about bullies and how to deal with them.
For a "Reader Theater Play" and other activities, please visit the publisher's site: Sylvan Dell Publishing
Words to remember: "No one can make you feel inferior without your permission" - Eleanor Roosevelt
Written By: Janet Ruth Heller
Illustrated By: Ben Hodson
32 pg, 8.5" x 10", Ages 6-10
Hardcover w/ Jacket- ISBN: 978-0-9764943-4-8, $15.95
Paperback- ISBN: 978-1-934359-02-0, $8.95
© Copyright 2007 by Classbrain.com
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