Wake Up, Moon!

Anchored by the opening refrain “The storm is over. The stars are out,” declarative lines build to trace a wide-awake squirrel’s antics in Judge’s playful after-hours jaunt. The rodent ventures out for a moonlit romp in the snow, urging friends and feelings to “wake up!” Pals fox and owl soon join up, and the trio build a snow bear only to encounter a real bear who, following a startling moment, proves an ideal playmate (“Wake up, shy glances./ Wake up, hope and smiles/ and taking chances”). Beneath the glow of the full moon, the foursome enjoy “glittering ice.../ and gliding fast” until it’s time for “gentle hugs/ and goodbye wishes.” Awash in cool blues, the accompanying watercolor and colored pencil spreads give definition to the tawny crew as they rejoice in each other’s company—until one active protagonist finally feels ready to rest. Ages 4–8. (Oct.)