FULL MOON

Who doesn’t like to imagine the secret nocturnal celebrations of forest creatures?

This translation of a French Canadian title opens with the coolness of stylized woodland greenery giving way to the heat of a brilliant orange fireball setting in the sky. Five gray rabbits emerge from their home, each with a backpack that cannot quite contain what looks like a puff of blue cotton candy. The majority of the compositions fill the double-page spreads except for a white border at the bottom where the minimal text often encourages engagement: “Where are they going?” Later: “What are they making?” The blue fluff surrounds small balls of light that are dropped into an underground factory, where a conveyor belt transports them for finishing touches. Bunnies in hard hats using tools or consulting sky charts create a productive atmosphere. In another section they operate a printing press, churning out papers that read “Full Moon.” These quietly joyful animals are ones you want to know. Invitations are delivered to the birds, mice, foxes—all are welcome. When everyone is assembled and the moon rises, the small, blue-and-white lanterns float upward from holes in the earth; birds break into song. Friendly faces, luscious forest backdrops, and dazzling points of light dancing around a glowing moon cast a magical aura over the moment. As a new day dawns, readers are summoned to the next party.

An enchanting romp sure to inspire reenactments with lucky stuffed or real animals.