Moongirl

A parent might reach for this book when their imaginative child is struggling with big fears, like monsters or the dark, and needs to see courage modeled in a fantastical way. Moongirl follows a boy named Leon who is unexpectedly pulled up to the moon. There, he discovers a magical world in peril: a fearsome monster has stolen the light, and it's up to Leon to help the lonely Moongirl get it back. This story gently explores themes of facing one's fears, helping others, and finding inner strength. Its dreamlike, slightly gothic illustrations and quest-based plot are perfect for early elementary schoolers (ages 6-9) who are ready for a story with a little more depth and artistic style than a typical picture book.