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First Impression: A children’s book providing a brief and imaginative trip through our galaxy through the eyes of a little girl and the moon.

When the Moon Sleeps, Do You Think He Dreams? book cover

Before I launch into my review, of When the Moon Sleeps, Do You Think He Dreams? I thank David Klochko and Book Sirens for the Advanced Digital Reader Copy of this title. For anyone with their eye on this children’s book, this is my personal review to help you decide on your purchase. All opinions offered are my own.

Wow! What is not to love about this book? When the Moon Sleeps, Do You Think He Dreams? by David Klochko is a standard-sized picture book in terms of length. Although, it probably contains more than the average number of words, particularly for the target audience of 2-4-year-olds. (Personally, I would pitch this book to children as young as newborns because it is cute and stimulating).

Llyrically, Does the Moon Dream? sums up the mood: LINK COMING 28/09/25.

The book is a young girl’s world view. As she awakes and prepares for the day ahead, the unnamed querent takes in the sights beyond her window and stretches. As she does so, she queries what happens to the moon now that the sun is providing light. Does the moon sleep, or does it go on amazing adventures across the galaxy until it is needed for the next night ahead?

The book is one detailed, imaginative poem from start to finish. It captures the order and stereotypes about each planet in our solar system. As an older reader, it took me back to my childhood. How? Simply in the way it talked of Jupiter’s moons, Lo and Callisto, Saturn’s frosty atmosphere and it rings, and sailing on Neptune. The latter reminds us of the great God of the Sea. What impressed me even more (and yes, I was easily impressed by this book), is that the author spoke of the forgotten planet, Pluto. Pluto likely existed in the parents’ time but has since been downgraded. This segment reminded me of the conversations I have had with my own children. We discussed how what we knew then and what we know now has altered over time.

Celina Josens teams with Klochko to beautifully illustrate the tale. Her graphics are the perfect balance of detail and color without looking busy. I thought they were highly stimulating. Admittedly, I am a huge fan of books for young readers that can be read by pictures alone. Should they choose to sit with the book independently, they could replicate a similar tale.

Reading, I was reminded of the likes of Julia Donaldson. The bouncy rhythm and rhyme of the text, coupled with the descriptive pictures are akin to books like The Gruffalo. Such books are easy to read and memorize. Perhaps because despite their length, the story is told across several different mediums that appeal to different interests. In addition to the fun and stimulating features that I have concurred will appeal to children, the book perfect for care givers. As a mother, I love the educational aspect that takes children on a space adventure. I also like the ease I was able to read with. I imagine caregivers reading this to young children from birth through to the end of infant school years. It’s a wonderful text for sharing one’s voice and time.

When the Moon Sleeps, Do You Think He Dreams? is 5 out of 5 stars. With no identifiable faults, I highly recommend it for home nurseries, pre-schools, day care centers, childminders and libraries. I cannot imagine that anyone that sits down with this book will be disappointed. It is an absolute gem, and I would gladly read more from Klochko.

Quick Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ / G Rated

Have your say: Based on the review, is this a title you are likely to consider as an addition to your setting? Why or why not? The Papergirl Community looks forward to reading your responses in the comments below.

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