Review: The Moon Shines Down by Margaret Wise Brown

The Moon Shines Down explores countries and regions around the world as well as the oceans that connect them all. Holland, Switzerland, Mexico, and Australia are just a few of the many countries included in the rhyming verse. A koala bear guide and the moon are the common threads in the large brightly-colored illustrations that complement the verse. The pictures contain popular cultural elements of each country or region. For example, the stanzas covering France are illustrated with the Eiffel Tower, vineyards, and an artist.

While the book unifies many countries of the world with the theme that they are all under the same celestial body, less westernized cultures receive less attention. Although not mentioned by name, the United States of America is alluded to with a focus on Christmas. While the rhyme is nice with a valuable message, the focus on the religious holiday seems out of place with the rest of the book.

In general, the book is educational, artfully illustrated, and carries a positive message of unity. Children will love the rhythm of the poem and the familiar refrain of, “I see the Moon and the Moon sees me. God bless the Moon and God bless me.”

Link to The Moon Shines Down: http://www.thomasnelson.com/consumer/product_detail.asp?sku=140031299X