Kevin Henkes’ Kitten's First Full Moon is a charming and sweet picture book that beautifully captures the wonder and curiosity of a young kitten experiencing the world around her. Told in simple yet poetic prose, the story follows an adorable kitten who mistakes the full moon for a big bowl of milk. Determined to reach it, she embarks on a nighttime adventure filled with failed attempts, determination, and a little bit of humor.
The heart of the book lies in Kitten’s innocent misunderstanding and her relentless effort to reach what she believes is a bowl of milk. Henkes crafts a story that feels both timeless and universal, drawing readers into the world through the eyes of a curious and hopeful little kitten. As she chases the moon, climbs trees, and even ends up wet from falling into a pond, Kitten’s determination is both heartwarming and relatable, reflecting the way young children pursue their desires with unshakable optimism.
What makes Kitten's First Full Moon so captivating is the way Henkes perfectly captures the simplicity of a child’s perspective through Kitten’s adventure. The moon, shining brightly in the night sky, becomes a source of wonder and possibility, much like how children view the world around them. Each of Kitten’s attempts to reach the moon—whether by jumping, climbing, or running—echoes the way young readers might tackle their own challenges, sometimes unsuccessfully, but always with perseverance.
The black-and-white illustrations, rendered in soft tones and gentle lines, are a standout feature of the book. Henkes’ minimalist artwork beautifully complements the simple, repetitive text, creating a calming atmosphere that feels almost like a lullaby. The use of grayscale enhances the nighttime setting, and the contrast between Kitten’s white fur and the dark surroundings helps her stand out on every page. Henkes’ ability to convey so much emotion and movement with such a limited color palette speaks to his mastery as both a writer and illustrator.
Kitten’s expressions throughout the story—whether she is hopeful, frustrated, or surprised—add an extra layer of emotional depth that young readers can easily connect with. Her wide-eyed innocence and determination are both endearing and familiar, as children often feel similar emotions when navigating new experiences. These relatable emotions, paired with the book’s soft visual style, make it a perfect bedtime story.
The repetitive structure of the text also adds to the soothing nature of the book. Phrases like “Poor Kitten!” and “But the bowl of milk wasn’t getting any closer” create a rhythmic pattern that is both engaging and comforting for young readers. Henkes uses this repetition effectively, not only to build anticipation but also to make the story accessible for toddlers and early readers. It invites participation, allowing children to predict what will happen next, which fosters a sense of engagement.
At its core, Kitten's First Full Moon is about persistence and hope. Even though Kitten doesn’t reach the moon, her efforts are rewarded in an unexpected and satisfying way when she returns home to find an actual bowl of milk waiting for her. This ending is a gentle reminder that, while our initial goals might not always be achieved, there is often a reward waiting for us in unexpected places. The book’s conclusion leaves readers with a warm sense of fulfillment and contentment.
Kitten's First Full Moon is a beautiful story about curiosity, determination, and the surprises that come with trying new things. Kevin Henkes has crafted a book that is both visually soothing and emotionally resonant, making it an excellent choice for bedtime reading. Its gentle storytelling, paired with evocative illustrations, creates a quiet and memorable journey that children will want to return to again and again.
Questions to ask while reading:
- What are some of the different activities the dogs do in the book?
- How do the illustrations help you understand the story?
- What is your favorite part of the dog party at the end?
Kitten’s First Full Moon on Amazon