Calling for the Moon

PreS-Gr 2–Yueyue impatiently awaits the return of her father, which was promised to be when the moon is “the roundest of the whole year.” She asks each family member, “Are you sure he will come back?” until she makes her way outside to see the moon herself. Children with lanterns nearby are excited to celebrate China’s Mid-Autumn Festival, but when the bright yellow moon disappears behind some clouds, Yueyue grows weary and anxious. She desperately searches for the hidden moon along a trail, hoping to get closer to it as she ascends a mountain. “Moon come out. Come out now!” she calls as she slowly gives up hope for her father’s return. Yueyue’s cries are interrupted by her mother as they make their way back home. During their walk, readers learn that Yueyue’s name means moon—“Yes, you’re our moon,” her mother shares. Upon their arrival back home, they are greeted by a surprise—her father. From the watercolor details of the moon and whimsical fields to Yueyue’s worried facial expressions, this colorful picture book depicts the mood of the story and its main character perfectly.