When a grandchild asks PawPaw for a bedtime story from when the old man was little, he starts by having his grandchild settle in and relax. Then he weaves the tale of Moon Cat, saying:

“When night falls, Moon Cat wakes from sleep. He stretches and yawns, slinking down from the sky.

“Landing quietly, softly on his feet, his pink paw pads knead the earth. He comes through the night sky to your window.”

As PawPaw weaves the tale, his grandchild imagines going on a nighttime adventure with Moon Cat, flying through the sky, resting in a meadow, learning about the stars, and finally traveling to the moon. Moon Cat’s gentle purr and his glow feels safe and warm.

Back on Earth the two visit the ocean until the child’s eyes grow heavy and they return home. Finally, PawPaw tucks the child under the covers, a stuffed kitty peeking out from the sheets. “Sweet dreams little one,” PawPaw whispers.

Moon Cat by Casi Cole is a sweet picture book that’s perfect to be read at bedtime. It highlights the special relationship between a grandfather and his grandchild. And it also educates just a little about the night sky and how the moon affects the ocean tides on Earth. Art by Amanda Romanick fits the dreamy quality of the story, with soft brushstrokes and muted colors.

The publisher provided a copy of this title in exchange for my honest review.