The Girl Who Spoke to the Moon

Starred review from January 1, 2020

K-Gr 3-Humans impact the planet in significant ways every day; sometimes it takes a fresh perspective to adjust these behaviors for the better. Sophia is a thoughtful young girl who often thinks about the moon. One evening, she and the moon begin a conversation, and a friendship quickly grows from it. As time goes by, Sophia recognizes that the moon is not only blue in color but is also blue in disposition. When she asks the orb what is wrong, Sophia is invited to see Earth as the moon sees it: beautiful, but in distress. Upon her return, Sophia is inspired to work with others to preserve Earth for generations to come. Climate change is a real concern for humans as the population of the earth increases every day. With limited resources and the undeniable effects of global warming, it is clear that something has to give. This beautifully poetic story introduces young children to the reality of global warming in an accessible and encouraging way. Rhyming phrases and soft, muted colors make this a perfect bedtime read. At the end of the book, readers will find more detailed information about climate change and what humans can do in their daily lives to help mitigate this problem. To enhance the moon's perspective, quotes from astronauts who have seen Earth from space adorn the final pages. VERDICT Elementary school classrooms will find this a valuable addition to their Earth Day collections.-Mary Lanni, formerly at Denver Public Library

Copyright 2020 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

November 15, 2019
A new perspective can sometimes work wonders. Awakened one night by a noise, Sofia finds her gaze following a beam of light to the Moon's winking eye, and they chat. "From this night on, a friendship grew / into a bond both strong and true." Later, Sofia, presented with a light complexion and dark hair and eyes, notices the Moon is sad and wants to help. She follows the Moon's suggestion and visits the Moon in a dream. As Sofia looks from the Moon toward Earth, Moon explains that Mother Earth is her "closest relative," but Earth's "people seem so unaware / that what Earth needs is better care." Moon suggests simple things everyone can do to take care of Mother Earth, and Sofia makes "a pledge of things to do / like passing on these words to you." While the often forced rhyme is light on specifics, backmatter defines air, land, and water pollution, then presents a bulleted list of everyday activities that can help keep "Earth clean and healthy." Sidebars in the backmatter include insightful reflections from male and female astronauts who witnessed planet Earth from space. Realistic illustrations mostly in neutral creams and grays capture the "pearl" and "opal glow" of Sofia's moon but may not capture the attention of young readers. Young activist dreamers will appreciate the new perspective and environmental call to action. (author's note) (Picture book. 4-7)

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