Young brother and sister Sol and Luna are going to bed but there’s one problem – they can’t seem to agree on a bedtime story! Mam to the rescue with a wonderful story about two other very different personalities: the Sun and the Moon.
The theme of friendship is central to this heartwarming story and we see what can happen when two people clash. Moon is quiet, calm and neat while Sun is loud, energetic and messy. The final straw comes when Moon is asleep and Sun wakes her with all her hustling and bustling. Off with Moon on a journey to find her own space. Her travels take her all over, from the mountains to the jungle, but nowhere feels right. After a long and lonely search, she is very happy when she bumps into her friend Sun. Together, they find a space that is suitable for both of them.
This story within a story shows how everyone needs their own space from time to time, while also showing the importance of friendships in our lives. Muireann writes in a style that is warm, heartfelt and appealing to young readers and the Irish is accessible for people with different levels of the language. The theme is very relevant to young children who are learning about friendships, disagreements and problem-solving.
Gealach agus Grian is beautifully illustrated by Brian Fitzgerald. Warm orange and yellow colours show Sun’s bright personality while Moon’s more subdued persona is reflected in muted blue and navy. Brian has cleverly included some hidden pictures that young readers will be eager to spot – for example, can they find the Sun in each picture as Moon is on her seemingly solo trip?
A relevant, funny and heartwarming book which is perfect not just for bedtime reading but during the day too!
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