Moon Sailors

written by Naomi Woodward, illustrated by Rachel Gregg

Published by Blue Dot Kids Press

With paper sailor hats, broomstick masts, and bedsheet sails, two children at bedtime are explorers on a moonlit seaward journey in search of treasure. This beautifully illustrated, poetic tale follows them as they encounter moonbeams in a star-swept sky, music of the ocean, silvery sand, sparkling seas, and the curious creatures of the deep, all with the company of their orange tabby cat. Floating through the water and wandering on the sand, the children marvel at the wonders of the sea and the beauty of the constellations and skies above as they slip into slumber.

This exquisitely written story captures the imagination and fantasy of two children stalling their bedtime. The cool, muted pen and ink with watercolor illustrations work beautifully in unison with the use of alliteration and figurative language, adding to the tale’s dreamlike quality. Together, it creates a soothing, serene story that will appeal both to children as well as the adults reading it. This is an enchanting read-aloud sure to be an enduring favorite of families and educators of young children.

Reviewed by Tara Lewis