Book Review: Fool Moon Rising {Crossway}

Fool Moon Rising by Kristi and T. Lively Fluharty
Ages: 3-7
ISBN: 978-1-4335-0682-6
Hardcover, 40 pages
Publisher: Crossway
Retail: $15.99

About the book (from Crossway):

Through this illustrated tale about the moon stealing the sun's glory, children learn about the importance of humility and the dangers of pride.

This rhyming, rollicking tale tells of a crime of cosmic proportions: the moon, blinded by pride, fails to see the true source of his abilities-the light provided by the sun. He boasts of his ability to shine, to change shape throughout each month, and to swell the tides. One day, overwhelmed by a piercing ray of sunshine, the moon repents of his pride and changes his ways, and from that point on he is happy to reflect the sun's light.

This beautifully illustrated book introduces the concept of humility to children. Readers will be reminded that everything we have, including our gifts and talents, is from God. Just as the moon learns to boast only of the sun, children-and their parents-learn that to boast of anything other than the Son is utter foolishness.

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My thoughts:

The book is richly illustrated. It has references to the moon and its phases, some song lyrics that feature the moon, about astronauts walking on its surface, and the effect it has on the tides. It shows a few of the other planets (Jupiter and Saturn are most recognizable) and the back flap has “galactic facts”. Also, throughout the book are little interesting things that can be spotted- I don’t know if they were intentionally put in to ‘be found’ but I thought it fun.

You can see a preview of the book at Crossway.

Perhaps it’s been so long since I’ve read children’s books like this that I’m missing it. I understand the purpose of the book- truly. Perhaps my preference for ‘moral of the story’ stories to involve people rather an inanimate objects, or animals, has me a little biased. Either way, while I thought the point a very good one to make (humility), I would have preferred to see it presented a different way. Some of the illustrations were …scary? Perhaps just extreme is a better word. The moon’s teeth are huge! {I do have an aversion to teeth so that’s probably just a me thing.}

This book was sent to me from Crossway for free in exchange for an honest review. I wouldn’t have requested this book on my own since the age range is 3-7. My kids are a bit out of that range {they are 13 & 16} but they will usually pick up ‘kids’ books’ to look at.