Review by Publisher's Weekly Review
Space's expanse provides an ideal setting for Monét's benevolent rhymes in this intergalactic picture book, which offers a tender message of unconditional care. "Think of me as the moon," propose first-person lines that further establish the orb as a source of stable continuity for a small, round-edged star. Verse proceeds to offer the calming reassurance that even during moments of separation, a strengthening bond persists (though it is at times visually absent, "we know inside our hearts/ the moon is never really gone"). Marley's iridescent digital artwork appropriately communicates a sense of vastness against which the two astronomical protagonists are rendered with kindly facial features. Skillful use of light illuminates the figures' shared connection just as a singsong refrain offers a soothing takeaway: "I'll always be your moon/ You'll always be my star/ Just keep me in your heart and/ I'll be everywhere you are." A lengthy dedication concludes. Ages 2--5. (June)
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Review by School Library Journal Review
Toddler-Gr 1--A moving tale for preschoolers and their parents that lovingly addresses ways to keep one another in mind when the adults are away at work. Personifying the moon and a tiny star to illustrate the caretaker-child relationship, singer/songwriter/parent Monét fills each page with rhyming verses that describe how the moon waxes and wanes, just as adults sometimes must leave home but always return. These fond references about how heavenly bodies "move" in space is also an inventive way to engage readers who may be curious about planetary science. Marley's illustrations encourage further exploration by featuring planets and the Milky Way resplendently. Words expressing Moon's love for Little Star are translated into Spanish by Correa in heartfelt, easy rhythms that will entice youngsters to join in with every telling. Wrapping up this story with Marley's colorful, swirling embrace makes this musical picture book a beautiful adventure. Children will connect with Monét's tender rhymes and enjoy the opportunity to find their own resilience through her words. Librarians, teachers, and caretakers will appreciate how the story creates a safe space--in space--for all to supportively "journey through the sky" together. VERDICT Both language editions would be great additions to shelves and to bedtime routines.--Sharon Sherman
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Review by Kirkus Book Review
Grammy Award--winning singer/songwriter Monét's picture-book debut reassures the very young that their caregivers are always watching over them. A smiling yellow star watches the equally cheerful moon; both are heavily anthropomorphized, with eyelashes for the moon and pink cheeks for the star. A page turn reveals the star, now downcast and in the corner of a mostly dark spread: "Sometimes the sky is dark and you can't see the moon at all." The following spread, depicting a sparkly sky with both characters back in view, reminds children that the moon is there, even when it's not visible: "Think of me as the moon / It's always in the sky / Just like I will forever be / a bright light in your life." Both orbs beam. "I'll always be your moon / You'll always be my star / Just keep me in your heart and / I'll be everywhere you are." This becomes the refrain after a few more verses that continue the theme of the moon as a metaphor for emotionally present, ever-loving caregivers. Little ones will happily repeat the words as they're lulled to sleep. The book ends with a heartfelt dedication from the author to her daughter and to parents who balance caregiving duties with careers. Monét notes that she set out to show children that their parents' devotion endures no matter what--a goal achieved by both text and art. A soothing bedtime reminder of a parent's unconditional love.(Picture book. 2-4) Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.
Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.
