Miller, Chanel. Moon without Stars, The. Chanel Miller, Illus. Philomel, 01/2026. 256pp. Fiction. Trade $17.99. 978-0-5936-2455-5. GRADES 5–8. OUTSTANDING.
Luna Noon, a seventh grader living in California with her white dad and Chinese American mom, considers her world simple and predictable as she begins a new school year. She’s got her best (and only) friend Scott and her love of writing—what more could she need? When Scott and Luna pair her writing with his art to create zines to help their classmates with problems from acne to romantic advice, Luna catches the attention of the popular kids. Soon Luna’s talent for observation and advice turns her predictable world upside down, driving a wedge between her and Scott. Can Luna stay true to herself or become what others think she should be? With the perfect blend of middle school drama, a little bit of romance, friendship, body issues, and realistic characters and situations, Chanel Miller has knocked it out of the park with this solid middle grade book that readers will find highly readable and relatable. Includes California-specific content.
Rebecca Jelen—Prospect Sierra Middle School