Kitten's First Full Moon

Book review by Marigny Dupuy, Common Sense Media
Kitten's First Full Moon Poster Image

Common Sense says

age 3+

Kids will connect with Kitten and her dilemma.

Kevin Henkes Picture Book 2004
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Parents say

age 5+

Based on 4 reviews

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A Lot or a Little?

The parents' guide to what's in this book.

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What Parents Need to Know

Parents need to know that this tale, uncluttered and direct, shares with old favorites such as The Carrot Seed and Harold and the Purple Crayon the strength and durability of a story with one character and a single focus. Children who connect with Kitten and her dilemma will want to return to this book again and again.

Community Reviews

tarpleyguy
tarpleyguy Adult
September 21, 2010
age 5+

children wanted for an exciting reading

I think this was a very cute and funny book. even though it talks about a kitten, i feel that children can relate to it. I am pretty sure that children have wanted something so bad that they keep trying even though they never get it. this book offers great illustration that kids can enjoy. the book offers a combitation of gouach and colored pencil. I think that the illustrations being black and white add to the story. i really like the character of the kitten. she is well driven and strives for what she wants, even though she couldn't get it. I posted this review on amazon.com Henkes, K. (2004). Kitten's first full moon. New York: Greenwillow Books

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ouarda
ouarda Adult
April 9, 2008
not rated for age

An Outstanding Children's Book

A wonderful tale of a kitten who mistakes her first full moon for a bowl of milk. The story is adorable and the artwork is sensational (black and white drawings with a silvery tone that actually evoke moonlight). I like the fact that Kitten always seems like a real feline on her night of misadventure. All's well that ends well though, and this story is an entertaining as well as reassuring bedtime book.
See all 4 parent reviews

What's the Story?

Sitting on the stairs, little Kitten sees what she takes to be a small bowl of milk in the night sky, but try as she might, she cannot get to it. She reaches and chases the bowl, but it always eludes her. Climbing up a tree, she sees below what she thinks is an even bigger bowl of milk. Of course, it is the moon and she gets soaking wet when she jumps into its reflection on the water. A real bowl of milk left for her on the porch gives the story a happy ending.

Is It Any Good?

The book's nostalgic atmosphere, combined with the simplicity and subtle emotional power of the story, make for a charming and memorable tale. This is prolific author/illustrator Kevin Henkes' 34th book for children. Known for his brightly colored, humorous picture books such as the Caldecott Honor Book Lily's Purple Plastic Purse and the #1 New York Times bestseller Wemberley Worried, Henkes uses a new style with KITTEN'S FIRST FULL MOON. In black and white with muted grays, the pictures are reminiscent of a classic 1940s film.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about the moon and imagination. What does the moon look like to you in its different phases? Have you ever seen the man in the moon?

Book Details

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