Title: Goodnight Moon
Author: Clement Hurd
First published September 3, 1947
32 pages, Hardcover
ISBN: 9780060775858 (ISBN10: 0060775858)
Rating: 4.3
Overview
In a cozy bedroom, snuggled up tight, is a little bear. “Goodnight bed, goodnight light.” And to all the familiar things in the warmly lit room — to the toy train and his mane, to the blocks and the clock, to the stars and the cars, to everything one by one — the little bear says goodnight.
In this timeless treasure of children’s books, cherished by countless generations of young and old alike, the soothing rhythm of the words and the tranquil, dream-like illustrations blend to create a flawless book for bedtime.
Editoral Review
Goodnight Moon by Clement Hurd is a timeless children’s classic, first published on September 3, 1947. This charming bedtime story follows a bunny as he says goodnight to everything in his room before drifting off to sleep.
The author, Clement Hurd, is a renowned illustrator of children’s books, and his delightful, colorful illustrations bring the story to life. Goodnight Moon is a quintessential example of the children’s bedtime story genre, with its rhythmic language and soothing tone.
The simple plot revolves around the bunny saying goodnight to the objects in his room, including a red balloon, a pair of mittens, and a cow jumping over the moon. The repetition of the “goodnight” refrain creates a comforting ritual for young readers as they prepare for sleep.
Beyond its surface-level appeal, Goodnight Moon has historical and cultural significance that make it a beloved classic. It was written just after the end of WWII, and the bunny’s bedroom is decorated with patriotic symbols such as an American flag, suggesting a time of healing and recovery.
Today, the story’s themes of bedtime routine and peacefulness continue to resonate with parents and children alike, as they navigate the stresses of modern life. While some may criticize the simplicity of the plot and language, it is precisely this simplicity that makes Goodnight Moon such a successful children’s book.
Hurd’s illustrations are warm and whimsical, capturing the bedtime routine with delightful details such as a tiny mouse hiding on each page. The story’s repetitive structure and soothing tone create a sense of comfort and security, making it a go-to choice for parents during bedtime.
Overall, Goodnight Moon is a delightful children’s bedtime story that has stood the test of time for over 70 years. Its comforting tone, charming illustrations, and historical significance make it a must-read for families, and a generation-spanning classic that is sure to be cherished for generations to come.
We give it a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars.
