Cozy Nights with Kitten: A Review of Kitten’s First Full Moon Board Book
As a mom, I’ve learned that bedtime can be a bit of a battlefield. Between quick stories, three trips to the bathroom, and deciding on which stuffed animal deserves nightly cuddles, I cherish those quiet moments snuggled up with a book. It was one of those evenings, seeking to calm the chaos after a long day, that I reached for Kitten’s First Full Moon by Kevin Henkes. This Caldecott Award-winning tale promised a gentle adventure, and let me tell you, it did not disappoint!
In this enchanting board book, we meet a curious little kitten who gazes up at the full moon and mistakes it for a bowl of milk in the sky. With a heart full of determination, she sets out on a charming quest to capture that elusive bowl. It’s a delightful tale that speaks to the adventurous spirit within us all—especially young children, who often mirror those instincts with their own explorations.
My kids, aged 3 and 5, were instantly captivated by Kitten’s journey. They giggled as Kitten misinterpreted the moon and ended up with only an aching belly and a touch of bewilderment. The combination of simple, repetitive language and the black-and-white illustrations made it a perfect fit for their age. Every turn of the page held their rapt attention, and they even chimed in when Kitten tried—and failed—to get to her coveted moon. "Oh no, Kitten!” my youngest exclaimed at one particularly precarious moment. Her earnest concern was touching and reminded me how seriously they take the stories we share.
What truly made this book special were the illustrations. The stark contrast of black and white lent an almost magical quality, enhancing the story’s dreamlike atmosphere. My children were drawn to the detailed images despite the absence of color. They often pointed to Kitten’s expressions, echoing her emotions of determination, despair, and, ultimately, joy when she finds something even better waiting back at home.
One evening, as we read together, my littles were particularly astounded by Kitten’s return home, where she finds a real bowl of milk waiting for her. "She got her milk! Yay!” They cheered, their eyes wide open with joy. Moments like these remind me why I love reading to them—their pure, unfiltered responses are what fill my heart.
I’d recommend Kitten’s First Full Moon to parents with little ones aged 1 to 5. It’s ideal for those just mastering the joys of storytime and who appreciate cozy bedtime reads. This book isn’t just a one-time read; it has become a staple in our bedtime library. The familiar rhythm of the text and the comforting story bring a sense of calm—something we all need on those busier nights.
In sharing this experience, I recognize that Kitten’s First Full Moon is more than just a children’s book. It’s a tender reminder of the simple joy found in exploration, the laughter of little ones, and the comfort of home. And it holds a special place in the tapestry of our family’s bedtime rituals, where each page turned holds a new memory yet to be cherished.
Snuggle up with the adorable adventures of a little kitten in this enchanting board book! >>
