Kitten's First Full Moon (Kevin Henkes)

Henkes, Kevin. Kitten's First Full Moon. New York: Greenwillow Books, 2004. ISBN 0060588292

Plot Summary
It is an exciting night when kitten experiences his first full moon. Kitten mistakes the large white moon for a delicious bowl of milk. In a series of mishaps, Kitten chases his dream of savoring the big bowl of milk before sadly walking home with an empty tummy. Fortunately for Kitten, and for the reader, Kitten comes home to a happy surprise.

Critical Analysis
This is an incredibly simple, yet emotional story that absorbs the reader into a magical nighttime adventure. The author guides the reader through a straightforward plot using expressive artwork and simple statements. The author’s style works to give insight to Kitten’s determination and gives voice to the readers’ sympathy for Kitten.

The candid black and white illustrations and thoughtful text placement will give depth to young readers’ understanding of the text, bringing the Kitten’s emotions of desire, determination, fear, and sadness to the forefront. With repeated readings, listeners will enjoy joining in with the reader on expressive statements, such as “Poor Kitten!” and “What a night!”.  Young readers will laugh at Kitten’s naivety in thinking the moon is a bowl of milk and yet secretly wish him success after witnessing Kitten’s determination.

Readers of all ages will enjoy the drama of this book while discovering the inspirational theme of persistence through setbacks and disappointments.

Awards and Review Excerpts
2005 Caldecott Medal Winner
The Washington Post- “What a picture book!”
School Library Journal Best Book- “An irresistible offering from the multifaceted Henkes.”

Connections
*This book is a great introduction for students learning to read and write with expression.
*With young kids, this book is a great introduction to exploring emotions.
*Other Kevin Henkes picture books that can be used to explore emotions include:

Henkes, Kevin. Lilly's purple plastic purse. New York: Greenwillow Books, 1996. ISBN 0688128971
Henkes, Kevin. Chrysanthemum. New York: Greenwillow Books, 1991. ISBN 0688147321
Henkes, Kevin. Wemberly worried. Pine Plains, N.Y: Live Oak Media, 2001. ISBN 0061857769