Imani’s Moon

Imani's Moon9781934133576_p0_v1_s260x420Imani’s Moon

JaNay Brown-Wood, Author

Hazel Mitchell, Illustrator

Charlesbridge Publishing, Fiction, Oct. 14, 2014

Suitable for Ages: 4-8

Themes: Maasai tribe, Maasai mythology, Moon, Belief and doubt, Self-confidence, Determination

Opening: “Imani was the smallest child in her village.”

Book Synopsis: Imani may be the smallest child in her Maasai village, but she is big in heart. The more she hears the ancient stories of her people, the more she longs to do something great. Imani wants to touch the moon, like Olapa, the moon goddess of Maasai mythology. Despite the teasing from village children, Imani isn’t about to give up on her dream.

What I like about this book:

JaNay Brown-Wood’s heartwarming story is filled with hope, ambition and big dreams. Even though Imani is tiny, she is strong in spirit. She endures the teasing of the village children daily. But they don’t deter her. For Imani there are no limitations, only possibilities and dreams to touch the moon. This richly textured story is charming, magical and begs to be read repeatedly. Hazel Mitchell’s cover with Imani’s outstretched arms in front of the big moon is engaging and draws the reader into Imani’s story. Her vibrant watercolor and graphite artwork includes a lot of Maasai detail.  The night scenes of Imani and the moon are dazzling and magical. Great collaborative work between the author and illustrator.

Resource: There is a lovely Author’s Note about the culture of the Maasai people living on the plains of Tanzania and Kenya. Passing along stories and mythology is an important part of the culture. You may want to visit JaNay Brown-Wood at her website. She has a Teaching Guide available for teachers and parents.

About Patricia Tiltonhttps://childrensbooksheal.wordpress.comI want "Children's Books Heal" to be a resource for parents, grandparents, teachers and school counselors. My goal is to share books on a wide range of topics that have a healing impact on children who are facing challenges in their lives. If you are looking for good books on grief, autism, visual and hearing impairments, special needs, diversity, bullying, military families and social justice issues, you've come to the right place. I also share books that encourage art, imagination and creativity. I am always searching for those special gems to share with you. If you have a suggestion, please let me know.

29 thoughts on “Imani’s Moon”

  1. Pat, This book has been on my to-read list for quite a while. What a wonderfully inspiring story about a girl with a big heart and big dreams. The illustrations do look magical. Great review!

    Like

    Reply

  3. I love anything with Hazel Mitchell in it. And just look at the cover!! So full of bright and gorgeous color.

    I Must pick this up right away. I’m putting it on hold at the library. 🙂

    Like

    Reply

  5. “For Imani there are no limitations, only possibilities and dreams to touch the moon.” – I love this line in your review! It should be my motto. 🙂 I’m with Robin: this book is on my to-read list that I must get to soon.

    Like

    Reply

  6. One of the best things I ever did was to work with the Maasai. Nomadic pastoralist warriors still hold many of their ancient beliefs and traditions. They are truly magnificent people. What a lovely book and idea behind the book.

    Like

    Reply

    • I’m glad you like the book Teresa. Inspiring story with gorgeous illustrations! Will be reviewing another book your granddaughter might like, “Water is Water” by Miranda Paul, about the life-cycle of water.

      Like

      Reply

Leave a comment