Search Results for Moon Girl

Binny and the Moon Girl

A cat saved from a terrible accident longs for her own family. Binny, the striped tabby cat, is a survivor, caring for her human, widowed Mrs. Cobbler while keeping watch with her chapter of neighborhood animals. But one sultry night, Binny finds something extraordinary: a tiny life that seems to have fallen from the heavens themselves. Binny gives her all to protect the tiny life form, enlisting the help of her animal friends as well as Ariel, Mrs. Cobbler’s niece, who has the gift of understanding animal speech. Together, Binny and the others must use their wits to help the littlest life survive while evading the clutches of those who would harm the precious little Moon Girl.

Binny and the Moon Girl by R.Y. Suben is the compelling tale of Binny the cat and her quest to protect a mysterious life form. Written from the cat’s point of view, I loved the interaction between Binny and the other animals as they fight to protect the enigmatic Moon Girl. The story draws the reader in, and though this is a short tale, there is no lack of intrigue as the plot develops. The story to guard a little life is deep, and Binny’s first foray into motherhood is both tragic and endearing as the narrative reaches its peak. The author intentionally leaves Moon Girl’s description to a minimum to keep the reader intrigued, making this a read that is hard to put down. I was just as curious as Binny to find out what this life form was, but I also admired Binny for wanting to protect it. I felt the ending was abrupt, and I was left wanting to read more of this charming story at the end. However, the core of the narrative, the conflicts, and emotions of a young mother struggling to protect her child, shines to the very last pages of the story.

The author provides a compelling story, immersive plot, and engaging characters; Binny and the Moon Girl is suitable for ages ten and up. An interesting out-of-the-box tale that fits nicely in an afternoon, this deep story of survival and a mother’s love is a great choice for animal lovers of all kinds.

Pages: 102 | ASIN : B0BJLDXCNP

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The MoonStone Girls

The MoonStone Girls by [Brooke Skipstone]

Brooke Skipstone’s The MoonStone Girls is the story of Tracy, a seventeen-year-old who leaves her home to discover herself and pursue her dreams. She and her brother are gay, and when this fact is revealed to their family, her father violently opposes it. The turmoil of the Vietnam war, the pain of losing her beloved brother, and the calling of an unknown girl from Alaska push Tracy to undertake a soul-searching journey. 

We see how Tracy cross-dresses as a boy and starts dating Ava because society wouldn’t accept two girls who are in love. Tracy continues to defy gender stereotypes and attempts to find her own place in the world. She finds her ideal partner in Jackie, and what follows is a beautiful love story. 

The author’s handling of the lesbian relationship is different from standard romance tropes. Their relationship is shown to be deeply embedded in friendship, understanding of the mutual struggles, and revolting against a homophobic society. This powerful emotional turmoil is delivered through potent and impassioned language that will steal the heart of readers. I really enjoyed how the physical proximity between the women has been described with such clarity that the reader can fully grasp the nuances of their relationship. 

The stigma surrounding the queer community in the 1960’s has been portrayed articulately through the stories of Tracy, Spencer, Jackie, and Jeff. Sadly enough, the stigma still continues to pose a threat to the community, and that’s why the novel is a relevant read today.  

Tracy’s emotionally-resonant journey of self-discovery, dealing with grief, bearing the rage of a homophobic father, and ultimately finding her way through life and putting her heart and soul into the music band MoonStone Girls is captured in vivid emotional detail that feels authentic and is relayed in a story that is absolutley enthralling.

Author Brooke Skipstone is an exceptional storyteller and one that is able to capture the uniqueness of their characters in a way that makes those pieces really stand out in ways that are captivating. The LGBTQ+ commentary throughout the novel is sincere and sheds a much needed light on the variety of issues that the community faces even today. While this novel is high in social commentary it never forgets to entertain the reader with intriguing characters and a compelling plot that will make this book hard to put down.

Pages: 397 | ASIN: B09MP9FF3Q

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A Little History And Girl Power

Alexandra Haden-Douglas Author Interview

The Four follows a group of teenage girls with unique talents in New Orleans who learn to rely on one another for friendship and acceptance while facing a dark fairy. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?

The book came about in an unusual way. I wrote an adult commercial fiction book & was in the midst of querying. One evening I received an email from an agent I had been corresponding with and I excitedly opened the email to find a plethora of praise surrounded by a “but at 137K words I will have to pass but will be cheering you from the sidelines.” So, I was disappointed since I had put a lot of hope into this agent. I decided it might just be that I had never written a novel before & it didn’t matter what I wrote. So, I sat down and wrote a query letter for a YA novel, since most of the agents I had queried were interested in YA, for a book that didn’t exist. The next morning, I received a request for the first 25 pages, and The Four was born.

What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?

Once I began in earnest, it was very important that I convey acceptance. I had four very different girls who were alone with their secret, and I loved the idea of showing the awkwardness of beginning a new school, the challenge of high school, and being different but throughout all of that finding your squad. The very important relationship of a girl’s first real friendships.

Each of the girls in this story has different powers. In fantasy novels, it’s easy to get carried away with the magical powers characters have. How did you balance the use of supernatural powers?

I wanted the story to be grounded. There are so many books where the powers and supernatural become the focal point of the story. I wanted the friendships to be the center and I really wanted New Orleans to be almost a character in itself. I also tried to toss in a little history and girl power along the way. An example of that would be Joyce, a young survivor of the Titanic, who is the spokesperson for the hundreds of souls buried in her crypt.

Will this novel be the start of a series, or are you working on a different story?

The original book The Circlet is in edit, and I have begun a new project that blends Gaiman, Baum & The Legend of King Arthur in the environs of Savannah. With that said, when you purchase a copy of The Four from me there is a bookmark & sticker hidden inside the pages. The card asks the reader to tell me who of The Four they most related to. It’s been really lovely. I received one response who told me she was allergic to everything, but since it didn’t bother Mallory, my hemoglobin-intolerant vampire, it wouldn’t bother her anymore either. Along with lovely messages, I have been getting requests for sophomore year. I was told recently that I need the write the girls through college. So, the little unlikely book might have started something I never intended. I think the girls of The Four would like that.

Author Links: GoodReads | Twitter | Facebook | Website

What if you had a secret you could never reveal? This is the story of four teenage girls who become unlikely friends as they navigate the challenges of growing into their powers. Each possesses a unique and extraordinary secret: a witch with erratic powers that grow stronger under the full moon, a siren who transforms into various birds, a demon goddess whose sneezes cause unpredictable weather, and a hemoglobin-intolerant vampire.

As they journey through freshman year of high school they face the trials and tribulations which come with discovering and embracing their differences. Together they will battle the dark fairy world to save a friend in the magical city of New Orleans. Along the way, they encounter a collection of creatures, both magical and mortal, under the rising full moon.

The Four is a tale of friendship, acceptance, and self-discovery, infused with the whimsy of Tim Burton and the magic found only in New Orleans. This is a story of finding the courage to be yourself and embrace your unique talents, no matter how different or unusual they may seem.

Third Moon Passing

In Haedong Village during the 19th century, the lives of two Korean girls, Daseul and Wolhwa, are unexpectedly intertwined with the realm of gods that have long existed but are still heavily debated. With an ominous curse hanging over them, hidden adversaries, and the impending threat of Western forces, Daseul and Wolhwa must unravel the secrets of their shared past before it’s too late.

Third Moon Passing, by Rina Olsen, is a mesmerizing and enchanting tale that seamlessly weaves together ancient folklore, mythology, and historical events. With its richly developed characters, evocative setting, and a captivating blend of fantasy and reality, Olsen delivers a spellbinding narrative that will transport readers into a world where gods and humans coexist.

Olsen’s prose is poetic and evocative, painting a vivid picture of the village and its surroundings. Her meticulous attention to detail breathes life into folklore and mythology, immersing readers in a world where gods walk the earth and shape the course of history. The author effortlessly blends fantasy elements with historical events, creating a seamless and believable narrative that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. Additionally, the characters are multifaceted and deeply relatable. Daseul, the shaman’s rebellious daughter, exudes strength and determination, while Wolhwa, the tomboyish scholar’s daughter, brings a refreshing mix of intelligence and bravery. The dynamic between the two girls is beautifully portrayed as they navigate their intertwined destinies and confront the challenges thrown their way. The supporting characters are equally compelling, each adding layers of depth to the narrative. Moreover, the plot of the novel is intricately woven, blending elements of mystery, adventure, and romance. Olsen skillfully builds tension and suspense, steadily unraveling the mysteries surrounding the girls’ past and the consequences of the gods’ involvement in their lives. The pacing is well-balanced, allowing for moments of reflection and introspection amidst the action-packed sequences.

Third Moon Passing is a mesmerizing and enchanting read that will captivate fans of fantasy, mythology, and historical fiction. Rina Olsen’s storytelling, richly imagined world, and well-crafted characters make for a compelling narrative. The novel offers a unique and immersive reading experience. I highly recommend it to readers who enjoy fantasy novels with a blend of mythology and history, like the Percy Jackson books, where the workings of gods and other creatures also helped shape events that are discussed in history books.

Pages: 413 | ASIN : B0C822PBDJ

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The Darkest Side of the Moon

Picture yourself as an ordinary teenage girl trying to navigate your way through high school, only to find yourself entangled with the most popular boy on campus. This scenario may seem like the perfect beginning to a romantic story, but there’s a twist – the boy holds secrets that have been passed down through his ancestors and could impact not just his life and yours but the entire universe. Would you be willing to explore a world far more significant than you ever imagined? Would you be willing to fulfill an age-old prophecy that centers around you? Are you willing to risk everything you’ve ever known for a greater purpose?

M.C. Ryder’s The Darkest Side of the Moon takes readers on a thrilling journey from the mundane world of high school to a darker, more sinister realm of fantasy, delivering a compelling coming-of-age narrative. At first glance, the novel introduces stereotypical characters that fit in the high school scene we all know, but as the plot thickens, readers soon discover that there’s a much larger world out there, one that includes vampires and werewolves. Moreover, the feud between these two factions transcends the world they’ve carefully constructed to hide their true identities.

Ryder’s writing style is refreshingly new and innovative. The author’s decision to refer to the female protagonist, Nadine Drexel, as “You” throughout the book was a bold move, but it paid off well. This approach allowed readers to immerse themselves in the character’s journey, feeling as though they were experiencing it firsthand. Additionally, the short chapters that end after each scene make the story more manageable for readers to digest. It serves as an avenue to delve into the character’s inner thoughts, enabling the audience to sympathize with even the most significant antagonist in the narrative. This is a great book to kick off a trilogy; the author’s decision to end the story will undoubtedly leave readers eager to read the sequel.

If you are a fan of the Twilight saga, then you will love The Darkest Side of the Moon. This novel is an excellent starting point for teenagers who want to delve into the world of book series. Overall, Ryder’s ability to transform a clichéd setting into a thrilling and captivating story is impressive, and I look forward to reading more in this series.

Pages: 401 | ASIN : B0BL5SN55F

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A Heartfelt Conversation With The Moon

Natcole Staskiewicz Author Interview

Lacie’s Moon follows a little girl who embarks on a fantastic adventure where she learns about love and grief. What was the art collaboration process like with illustrator Amyia Staskiewicz?

Amyia is my daughter and that made working on this project extra special. She had been drawing since she was six years old, and I was happy she said yes when I approached her to do the project with me. It was during a difficult time and we had loss many loved ones. She created the character, and everything took off from there. I was amazed that without reading the full story and with little instructions she was still able to capture its essence.

What scene in the book did you have the most fun creating?

When Lacie rides through the stars having a heartfelt conversation with the moon. It was both fun and therapeutic because I was grieving alongside her.

What is the next book that you are working on and when will it be available?

I am currently working on a couple of book projects. One of them is the next book in the “Little People Big Emotions” series which focus on children processing their feelings. It will feature Lacie adjusting to having a new sibling. It has just started the illustrating phase and I anticipate it will be available by early 2023. The second book is a story about kindness, and I am working to make it available by December 2022.

Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website

Rated #1 New Release
Awarded Honorable Mention at the New York Book Festival


Understanding grief is never easy.

Lacie’s Moon follows a happy little girl who can’t imagine life being anything else until she learns that two members of her family have died. She loved them with all her heart. And they loved her to the moon and back. Now they’re gone forever…
Not sure what to do, Lacie shouts out to the moon. To her surprise, she wakes to the moon coming to her aid.
Can the moon help?
Natcole Staskiewicz has thoughtfully crafted a beautiful story to help your child cope with loss. Each page is accompanied with wonderful illustrations by her daughter, Amyia Staskiewicz, that helps bring the story to life.
This book is wonderful for elementary grade children and older, who can then discuss it with their parents and family. This is also for adults who need a gentle reminder that the ones we love stay with us…through their never-ending love.

Lacie’s Moon

Lacie has recently lost two people in her family that she loved dearly. One night, while struggling to cope with the loss, her mother tells her a story about the girl who rides the moon. As Lacie drifts off to sleep she embarks on a fantastic adventure where she meets the moon and learns about love and loss. But is it just a dream? Or did it all really happen?

Author Natcole Staskiewicz has created a heartfelt children’s book that will help children understand love, grief and deal with loss. This exquisite kids book is like a fairy tale. The reader and Lacie are not sure if it actually happened until the wonderful twist at the end. This is an imaginative picture book that explores loss and love in a unique way that will be easy for young kids to understand.

Every other page is illustrated with sharp kawaii pop art. These vivid images bring a vibrant quality to the whole book and ensures that, even though the subject matter may be a little sad, the book feels lively. The art was my favorite part of the book. This could easily be a comic series. I would love to see Lacie go on many more adventures.

Lacie’s Moon is a beautiful children’s book that will be perfect for elementary school kids that are starting to read on their own. It would also be great for parents to read to smaller children at bedtime as the brilliant illustrations will surely keep their attention while adults read the story to them. This is an educational story about a tough subject but author Natcole Staskiewicz handles it with grace.

Pages: 59 | ASIN: B0B3NB4P15

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Solita and the Purple Moon

Solita is a young girl that misses her mom. But unfortunately, her mom is in the military and is deployed and she does not know when her mom will return. So, she imagines the Purple Moon that will come to her room every night to comfort her. This moon becomes her source of refuge and a companion for the lonely nights as she misses her mom. The moon sits by her window night after night offering comfort and, one night, a trip across the land to see mountains, rivers, and lakes. The Purple Moon is her best friend waiting by her side until Solita’s mom returns.

Solita and the Purple Moon: Solita Y La Luna Morada, written by Miriam Isabel Elliott, is a beautiful picture book written in English and Spanish. This heartwarming story about a little girl missing her mom is one that many children will be able to relate to. Even for children not in a military family, a parent who travels is common, and this story can bring them comfort.

The whimsical rhymes sound like a small child calling out, and the Moon is a loving caregiver assuring them that they are not alone. The tone is soothing and peaceful, perfect for a bedtime story. The book is written both in Spanish and in English. This is an ideal way of introducing a new language to children. Having the story be the same in both languages on the same page will help them understand the new words.

This creative children’s book is illustrated by Carlos E. Elliott. His pencil drawings are innovative and unique. Done mostly in grayscale, the Purple Moon stands out as well as Solita’s hair. The art style focuses on the two main characters, allowing them to shine against the things that caused Solita’s loneliness. I genuinely enjoy black and white artwork, and I think the pop of color will appeal to children, especially when you are trying to settle them down for bed. The gray tones are soothing instead of invigorating.

Solita and the Purple Moon: Solita Y La Luna Morada is a heartfelt children’s book that will appeal to children that are missing their parents, or having fears of being alone at night. This well-written book will expose children to different languages as well, making it an excellent way to introduce them to being bilingual.

Pages: 26 | ASIN : B099DXZV88

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