Goodnight Moon

Goodnight Moon

Written by Margaret Wise Brown
Illustrated by Clement Hurd

What did I find out about this book that I immediately liked? It was originally published in 1947. Aww, it's a vintage story. The illustrations play on my love for all things vintage. I wouldn't mind having one or two of these pictures framed on a wall in my house. They would be excellent nursery room décor.

Reading the book with thoughtful reflection for the first time gives me the impression this is on the top 100 list because of the simplicity of it's storyline. This is like a story that a mother would make up for a tired child at bedtime who came into Mom's room simply wanting to hear mother's voice comfort him to sleep. Mom is tired too so she pulls elements from surroundings in the bedroom weaving them into a story that she can easily tell between yawns. What mother hasn't done this? This is classic proving stories don't have to be complicated to get published.

My 4-year-old daughters favorite part is the fact that with each turn of the page the moon slowly rises further into view of the window until fully seen. She also likes that the quiet old lady whispering "hush" is actually a little old lady rabbit in a dress as is the child that is tucked in bed. That adds a bit of fantasy to the whimsy of the pages.

Goodnight Moon is considered a "see and say" book, it helps a toddler learn the names of objects by pointing to the picture and saying what they are called. The board book edition is an excellent book to tuck into a baby shower gift basket for a first time mom. That's how I got my copy and then toted it around in my diaper bag.
What are your thoughts on this book? Do you like it? Do you own a copy? Has a child you know enjoyed it?

Next review will be on Ezra Jack Keats celebration of The Snowy Day. It seems like a good pick for this time of year as I look out my window watching the snow cascade from the sky.

100 Books Every Child Should Know Before Kindergarten

I've carried a little pamphlet around for a few years now, "100 Books Every Child Should Know Before Kindergarten", with the intention of having my up & coming kindergartener knowing all 100. Yes, this means I have been holding onto this list since she was two. We've actually read several unintentionally in regards to the list. But I am still toting this list around in my purse now in the hopes that I will remember to check the specific titles out at my local library. Well, I have until September to accomplish this goal & I see it as easily done between now & then. I think it's about time since I haven't thrown this list out yet.  I am sure I will soon begin seeing the many benefits of this adventure. My daughters educations along with my desire to begin learning & pursuing the art & craft of writing has prompted me to start with sharing my self-education on "Why Should Every Child Know These Books Before Kindergarten?" Not only will this be a great enrichment process for my pre-kindergarten daughter but it will be a great growing project for myself.

I will start out with those we have already read. But we will re-read them. No cheating, I promise. I will post the series of questions that are asked as we delve into each book. Questions the book naturally brings as you read it & helps your little one to understand the concept of the book. I will also be sure to post questions that pop into the mind of my 4yr.old little girl. Those moments are the best when you get an inclination as to how the wheels are spinning & processing in their pliable knowledge thirsty information centers. Children's thought processes & understanding vary greatly so I find it important to ask them questions in order to determine if they are able to get out of it what the book intends, although, it always humors me to see their side of perception too!

Then I will add any information that I find about the book that helps me understand, why is this book one of the top "100 Books"? How did the research of it help me in becoming a better writer & my knowledge about books. Double bonus here! I am learning & teaching, she is learning & growing.

So come back & visit me soon as I will be posting on "Goodnight Moon" by Margaret Wise Brown.