Having witnessed the 2017 total solar eclipse in Wyoming, nothing—not even a newborn—could keep me from traveling to the path of totality this time around. The experience did not disappoint, and I’m still basking in the afterglow of Monday’s eclipse, looking for ways to relive the experience with my baby.
Luckily there’s a picture book for that. Or, rather, thousands of picture books. From the obvious classics like Goodnight Moon to recent eclipse-centric releases (see: A Few Beautiful Minutes), the moon looms large in children’s literature. Here are the three I find myself reading over and over during these long, early nights of our newborn’s life. Whether you have children or just reconnected with your inner child during Monday’s eclipse, I highly recommend any of these books to help keep the feeling of awe alive.
1) Mooncake by Frank Asch
A favorite of mine since childhood, Mooncake follows Moonbear’s quest to discover what the moon tastes like before he has to go to sleep for the winter. Thanks to a bit of magic and imagination, readers delight in Moonbear’s success. I forced my mother to read this one to me hundreds of times and am now passing the favor along to my little one.
2) Mama in the Moon by Doreen Cronin
Inspired by the fact that sloths fall out of trees on average once a week during their lifetime, Mama in the Moon is a recent entry into the lunar picture book genre from the author of Click Clack Moo. When a fall disrupts baby sloth’s slumber, his mama comforts him by pointing out the sights and sounds they share until they are reunited. A beautiful reminder that we’re connected even when we’re apart.
3) Moon by Britta Teckentrup
Every page in this book, part of the author/illustrator’s Peek-Through Picture Book series, is a work of art. Cutouts depict the moon as it appears through its phases, across the world, and throughout the seasons. Teckentrup’s moon seemingly glows, filling readers with a sense of wonder.
Allie Levy owns and runs Still North Books & Bar in Hanover.