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How to Reach the Moon
CCBC Review:
In the summer, Emilio (Latine) leaves the city and travels past a landscape of pointed mountains to the forest, where his abuelo lives in a house among the trees. There they eat dinner outside by lantern light, and afterward, in the dark, Abuelo treats Emilio to fantastical stories. Seeing the moon in the sky one night, Emilio asks whether it is “true that the moon has a face we never see.” In fact, it “has many faces!” says Abuelo. Would Emilio like to meet the moon? “I would love to.” Abuelo leads his surprised grandson on a journey through the woods, where “plants caress their legs and arms,” and where Emilio imagines himself and his grandfather as animals. They reach the edge of a ravine, and Emilio sees the moon reflected large and silver in the water below. “Ready for takeoff?” Abuelo takes Emilio’s hand; they run and run and “WHOOP! They leap and fly through the air, howling and flailing their arms with joy, and they land right in the middle of the moon in the lagoon.” After a good swim, they build a campfire and sleep beneath the stars. This beautifully translated work feels imbued with otherworldly magic. The special summer setting, Emilio’s lively imagination, and Abuelo’s playful, spontaneous spirit make for a warm and enchanting reading experience. ©2026 Cooperative Children’s Book Center
Illustrated by
Ana Sender
Translated by
Lawrence Schimel.
Translated from the Spanish.
CCBC Age Recommendation: 4-7
Age Range:
PreK-Early Elementary (Ages 4-7)
Format:
Picture book
Subjects:
Camps and Camping
Grandfathers
Imagination/Imaginary Play
Nature/Environment
Translated Books
Publisher:
Amazon Crossing Kids
Publish Year: 2025
Pages: 32
ISBN: 9781662522963
CCBC Location: Picture Book, Schuff