Saturday, September 3, 2011

Book Review – KITTEN’S FIRST FULL MOON



1.       BIBLIOGRAPHY
Henkes, Kevin.  2004.  KITTEN’S FIRST FULL MOON.  New York, NY: Greenwillow Books.  ISBN 0-06-058829-2

2.       PLOT SUMMARY
A kitten mistakes her first full moon for a bowl of milk, and wants it.  She journeys into the night, never getting closer to the milk, but having several misadventures leaving her wet, sad, and tired.  Eventually, the kitten gives up and heads home where a great big bowl of milk waits for her.  She’s a lucky kitten after all!

3.       CRITICAL ANALYSIS
Henkes’ writing is clear and simple, perfect for toddlers or the very early reader.  The word selection is perfect for these beginners, with simple words in a large font.  The book usually alternates between pages with more words, and then pages with fewer words, keeping the interest of youngsters and offering a break for the beginning reader.  The phrase "Poor Kitten!" is repeated often to encourage an emotional connection with the young kitten and her plight.  The pictures, created with gouache and colored pencils, capture a nighttime stroll well with simple black and white images featuring thick black lines.  The expressions of the kitten are excellent as well, capturing the main character’s emotions during her wild night.  It's interesting to note that some pages feature up to six illustrations, while others have only one.  This variety may keep the younger readers interested, and can teach them how to decode a series of pictures.  Also noteworthy are the illustrations that feature the kitten on the opposite side of the page from the little bowl of milk (also known as the moon).  This enhances the feeling that the milk is visible and inviting, yet somehow always out of reach.  This book teaches a good lesson about persistence, and knowing when to go home and just take a break.

4.       REVIEW EXCERPTS
2005 Caldecott Medal Winner
Reviewed in the NEW YORK TIMES: “The pictures fit the words perfectly, with equal amounts of simplicity and charm.  As the title implies, there are two stars in this story: the moon, which doubles as a bowl of milk, and Kitten.”
Reviewed in PUBLISHER’S WEEKLY:  “The narrative and visual pacing will keep children entranced, and the determined young heroine and her comical quest will win them over.”

5.       CONNECTIONS
* This is an excellent book to teach children empathy and how to keep trying even during adversity.
* Teaches a good lesson about good things happening when you least expect it.
* The official web site for the book can be found HERE.
http://www.kevinhenkes.com/kittens_first.asp
* Other books for children who enjoy this title of a little one seeking adventure:
Henkes, Kevin.  LITTLE WHITE RABBIT.  ISBN 0062006428
Johnson, Crockett. HAROLD AND THE PURPLE CRAYON. ISBN 0064430227

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