"Abuelo goes into the house and comes outside
wearing a backpack.
The first Sunday of September is celebrated as Grandparents Day. To add to your collection of books about these cherished people who share the lives of their grandchildren, I want to tell you about this tale by Argentinian author Nicolas Schuff. The question about reaching the moon gives it the feel a folktale, and introduces readers to Emilio and his abuelo.
Emilio's summer visit with his grandfather is highly anticipated. Life away from the city is calm and peaceful, as the two spend their days and evenings together in the quiet of the forest. Following dinner every evening, they blow out their lantern. In the darkness, Abuelo shares stories with his grandson. There are many.
On the night of a full moon, while sharing a delicious dessert, Emilio has a question:
"Abuelo, is it true that the moon
has a face we never see?"
His abuelo suggests that the moon has many faces, and tells his grandson what he sees when he looks to the night sky. As the two bask in the quiet peace of their surroundings, Abuelo asks if Emilio would like to meet the moon. The boy's affirmative response leads to a walk in the moonlit forest. It is a place of wonder where Emilio's imagination takes flight. Expecting their path to lead directly to the moon, Emilio is surprised when they come to a stop at the edge of a ravine.
There they find the reflection of the moon they seek. Together they prepare for a leap that will place them in the middle of the moon below them. What amazing sights welcome them underwater! A campfire, an overnight stay in the beauty of a star-filled night, and a sleepy trek back home in the morning brings an end to their adventure.
Ana Sender's muted digital artwork provides a perfect setting for this nighttime jaunt, while employing all types of light to complement the story.
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