Moonboy, 25th Anniversary Edition - by Carolyn Garcia (Paperback)

Book Synopsis

Celebrating twenty-five years in print, Moonboy continues to teach new generations of children the value of acceptance and friendship and to not judge someone by their appearance, no matter how different they look.

The Man in the Moon allows his precious son, Moonboy, to descend to Earth--the mysterious world below. When the charming lunar visitor lands on the top of a hill overlooking Poppygold, the bustle and cheer of the town's children fill Moonboy with glee. "Hello, hello, hello!" he calls, imitating their banter, but the children are so shocked by his appearance that they run in the other direction.

Confused and hurt, Moonboy retires to his new home and plans a party, but the residents of Poppygold are too scared to attend. Only a curious and friendly boy, Ed Bread, listens to his heart and refuses to accept the townspeople's disdain for their new neighbor. Through Ed's curiosity and bravery, the town learns an important lesson about true friendship and the dreams within our hearts.

Readers of all ages will love joining Moonboy on his interplanetary search for a friend. Moonboy emphasizes the importance of tolerance and diversity--a much-needed reminder in today's society. This updated and expanded paperback edition includes new illustrations, an author's note, and a parent/teacher guide!

Review Quotes

"A story that most kids can relate to. Moonboy struggles to make friends, so he comes down to earth. Upon his arrival he notices that he does things very differently than the humans, but he keeps trying to connect by adapting to their behaviors and customs. But nothing seemed to help. Moonboy was still sad and alone. Everyone in town had their own pre-conceived notions about Moonboy; some quite outrageous. Then the question arose, 'But what's in your heart?' Then everything changed. A sweet story with many moral applications and talking points."--Emily Lewis "Mrs. Mommy Booknerd's Book Reviews"

"Like most quality children's literature, there is a lesson and there is a reward. The moral is smoothly worked into the entertaining story. Vivid illustrations and over-the-top behavior make Moonboy a pleasure for children and adults. And a touch of science fiction never hurt anyone."--Lisa DuMond, September 1999 "SF Site, MEviews, "

"Bright, energetic illustrations attract adults and children alike in this story about overcoming differences and forging friendships....Charming and whimsical, the vivid illustrations help make Moonboy a memorable read."-- "Publishers Group West, Spring 1999"

"Garcia's stylized cartoon illustrations are simple and spacious, with delicately drawn details and bright, varied patterns. Moonboy's changing feelings are written large enough on his moon face for younger children to follow, and he does win general acceptance at the end; consider this sweet alternative to Tomi Ungerer's Moon Man."-- "Kirkus Reviews, June 15, 1999"

"The art...commands interest. Old-fashioned cross-hatching combines with postmodern figures in an arresting mix of classic and contemporary styles. Tidy patterning contains the profusion of elements on each spread--they are busy but inviting."-- "Publishers Weekly, June 21, 1999"

"The cartoonlike, stylized illustrations are slightly reminiscent of the work of Henrik Drescher and Maira Kalman.... They are colorful with an emphasis on pastel hues. The book is well designed and has a creative use of typography and layout."-- "School Library Journal, August 1999"

"When Moonboy decides to visit Earth, he is excited about making new friends. But when the people of Poppygold see him, they run away. He looks very different and they are afraid. Only one person is brave enough to find out what Moonboy is really like, a boy named Ed Bread. When Ed finds out what's inside Moonboy's heart, he wants everyone else to see it, too. Moonboy is a wonderful story about going beyond appearances; written and illustrated by Carolyn Garcia."-- "The Reader's Edge, June 1999"