Review: Kitten's First Full Moon

Bibliography:

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

Plot Summary:

It is night and Kitten is hungry and out on the prowl. She spies the full moon for the first time, and mistakes it for a bowl of milk. After several failed attempts to reach it, Kitten returns home and discovers a nice bowl of milk left out just for her.

Critical Analysis:

The illustrations in Kitten’s Full Moon are striking and create a strong sense of atmosphere. Drawings appear black and white upon first glance, but actually have subtle sepia tones blended in. Objects are boldly outlined. This essentially black-and-white look creates a bit of a spooky mood – we get the sense that this kitten is out for an adventure, one that the reader will be taking along with her. Henkes does a fantastic job of capturing the way things look slightly different at night, without ever making it seem too frightening or threatening.

The writing is simple, but often highly sensory. When Kitten first jumps for the moon, Henkes writes: “But Kitten only tumbled – bumping her nose and banging her ear and pinching her tail. Poor Kitten!” The reader is made to feel the bumps and bruises right along with naïve Kitten. The “Poor Kitten” refrain is also repeated, lending itself well to child participation in read alouds.

Kitten takes us with her on an adventure into the outside world. Sometimes dealing with new situations can be tough and even a little bit scary. Although Kitten repeatedly fails, she has the courage to pick herself up, dust herself off, and continue trying. Her efforts leave her bruised and soaking wet, but she ultimately finds her reward, new knowledge, and a safe haven at home.

Review Excerpts:

Awards and honors include: Caldecott Medal, Bulletin Blue Ribbom (BCCB), Charlotte Zolotow Award, ALA Notable Children’s Book, Texas 2X2 Reading List, Book Sense Pick, School Library Journal Best Book, Publisher’s Weekly Best Book, New York Times Best Book

“An irresistible offering from the multifaceted Henkes” - School Library Journal (April 1, 2004)

“Wise preschoolers may chuckle at the kitten's folly, but they'll also recognize the mysterious power of moonlight to transform the familiar world of daytime into something altogether new” - Booklist (starred review - February 15, 2004)

Connections:

Read other books by Kevin Henkes (such as Wembley Worried)

Have students think of common objects that Kitten might mistake for something else. What kind of adventures might these new objects lead Kitten on?

Have students make Kitten sack puppets and retell the story.