Night of the Moonjellies

I thought it might be a bit advanced for my 5-year-old granddaughter, but she enjoyed it. Is part of her homeschool curriculum. As a young Southern California girl, she learned many new vocabulary words and found it very interesting.

Charming story capturing a magical childhood day. Makes you think about memories of special days from your own childhood, and family that have passed away. The details that are recounted would not be remembered by an adult experiencing them. Now that entire weeks seem to fly by faster than a single childhood day, this story will bring you back to a child's view of a slower moving world. Though a bit slow compared to what adults are used to as they go through the daily routine, my 4-year-old loves the pace of this book, and dwells on the details. The 'impressionist' illustrations are captivating, particularly the 'climax' page where the moonjellies light up the sea. The final page chokes me up a bit, as the grandmother attempts to 'bottle' memories of that special day for her grandson.

Our children (ages 3 and 5) LOVE this book. And so do I. The illustrations are gorgeous. The story is fantastic. And what makes it even more nice is that it's true. This is one of our favorite children's books. Our kids ask for this time and time again.

This book is a wholesome family and nature oriented book for boys 3-8 years old. My son has spent countless hours playing out the theme of this book - never tiring of the many options it offers. If you have a budding oceanographer or tide-pooling enthusiast this is the book for you. Any landlocked readers can enjoy the book just as well. The book's pictures fill the pages as well as the mind with dreamy images that bring the whole story to life. The words and images are really a hand and glove that make a perfect fit. The book also models working together as a family and that children can have an important place in helping. Grandma's get a boost here too as quick and creative planners. Nigth of the Moonjellies is also a gentle reminder to save some of the present for the future, without heavy sentimentality. A great book to read if you include any aquariums in your vacations. Don't forget about Aliki's great "My Visit to the Aquarium" book.