Moon Girl

This book is a great support for any child who may be fearful of the dark, and for any child who enjoys seeing a character go on a big adventure of discovery.

Leila isn't fond of the dark - it makes it impossible to see anything! But when Leila looks up at the moon and is greeted by Moon Girl, they quickly become friends as Moon Girl's magical paintbrush paves the way for Leila's biggest adventure yet - an exploration of darkness!

Leila is given a special pot of paint filled with moonlight. She dips a magical brush into the pot and uses the light to discover all kinds of creatures and animals from owls to moths - the night is full of surprises. The further they travel into the night, the more exciting things there are to discover! Leila learns that the dark doesn't have to be scary - it can be beautiful, mysterious and exciting!

A very special and poignant message is shared through this book - we can find a way to overcome our fears. This book would be equally as effective to share with a child who may have a different fear, perhaps of bees or bugs. It teaches us that it is ok to experience fear - it is the way we deal with it that can help us to overcome the control it may have over us.

If you are new to Thomas Docherty's books, I urge you to embrace The Snatchabook, The Screen Thief, The Hare-Shaped Hole and so many more titles. His stories are riddled with important takeaways - for adults and children alike!

Picture book / Reviewed by Jessica Bunney, teacher

Suggested Reading Age 3+

Leila loves bright colours but is very afraid of the dark. One night she looks into the moon and sees a girl, who comes to help her light up the night and see there's really nothing to be scared of, the night is full of amazing things. 

Moon Girl is a simple story about overcoming our fears and the illustrations are lovely - my five-year-old enjoyed it and my one-year-old enjoyed spotting the different animals.

Picture book / Reviewed by Lizi Backhouse, teacher

Suggested Reading Age 3+