Soltis, Sue. Moon Moved In, The. Sonia Sánchez, Illus. Chronicle, 07/2025. [24]pp. Picture Book. Trade $17.99. 978-1-4521-8071-7. GRADES Preschool–1. OUTSTANDING.
When the moon descends from the sky and moves into the empty house next door, Stella is overjoyed to have found a new friend. The moon’s obsession with gardening provides a platform to weave interesting nonfiction facts about the moon into a fantastical story. Digital art that uses vibrant colors in an impressionist style adds a whimsical note to the story, even as the dire consequences of the moon’s absence from the sky escalate. In the end, Stella must decide if her desire for a friend outweighs the devastating consequences for the earth’s other creatures, who rely on the moon to survive. While playful in tone, the story offers a deeper discussion on social responsibility and personal sacrifice. Stella has light skin and dark hair. Back matter includes full paragraph answers that expand on the moon facts.
Sarah Mettler—San José Public Library