Saturday, November 27, 2010
From the days of early humans, people have used folklore to explain why events of nature occur. Influenced by Native American folktalkes, How the Moon Regained Her Shape explains the phases of the moon while providing a life lesson for childrren as they observe how the moon was able to overcome bullying and build self-confidence. After the sun insults her, the moon is very hurt and disappears - much to the chagrin of the rabbits who miss their moonlight romps. With the help of her many friends and admirers, the moon regains her self-confidence until she is back to her full size.
Included in the book is an educational section which includes moon observation and facts, how to deal with bullies, Native American names for full moons, and more.
Bullying, along with the effects and consequences of it, has been strong in the spotlight lately. It needs to continue to be addressed so no child or teen has to endure its harshness.
How the Moon Regained Her Shape, written by Janet Ruth Heller and illustrated by Ben Hodson, is a gentle introduction to bullying without being in-your-face forward.
Whether you read this book to your child or they read it themselves, there are many lessons learned and educational points taught. It helps promote self-confidence and gives insight on the Native American culture and folklore. The illustrations are colorful and powerful.
A book that's won many awards, How the Moon Regained Her Shape is a book I'd recommend for smaller children as a catapult on the lessons of bullying, self-confidence, culture, and folklore. I'd even go far as to say it should be a staple in all classrooms for educational purposes.
I received book for review from Sylvan Dell Publishing. The opinions within this post are of my own and I was not influenced in any way. Please do your own research before purchasing products. Your opinions and results may differ.