Susannah Crispe, Under the Moonlight, Hachette Australia, April 2022, 32 pp., RRP $24.99 (hbk), ISBN 9780734421159
Moose is settling down for his nightly sleep in the forest but there are so many unknown sounds and shapes that keep him awake. Can he overcome his night-time fears and get a good night’s rest?
This is Susannah Crispe’s first authored and illustrated book, having previously illustrated Where the Heart Is and Cookie. The text flows along in expressive rhyming couplets and provides much opportunity for a dramatic read-aloud. The story sensitively captures Moose’s feelings of both fear and courage, with physical and emotional descriptions that children could relate to; Unable to sleep and trembling with fear, Moose studied the forest, straining his ears.
The pages are a visual delight, soft pastel colours with pops of warmth are used, and Moose and the other forest animals are charmingly rendered. There are also interesting perspectives shown, for instance an extreme close up of Moose’ face and a series of landscape strips that illustrate Moose’s race from the Bear. These clever details add that extra dramatic element that enhances the story.
This would be a lovely picture book for children aged 3 – 9 years, as well as a useful resource to talk to children about facing their fears. The satisfying ending offers a reassuring message about the comfort of companionship. There are also ample teacher resources available on the author’s website for extension activities.
Reviewed by Julie Bertola
