Brian D. McClure, The Sun and The Moon

The Sun and The Moon

Brian D. McClure

Universal Flag Publishing, 2006, $14.95

ISBN: 9781933426099

The sun is tired so he tells the moon that he is retiring. Fearing the unknown, the moon says to his friend the sun that is a stupid idea as that will end everything especially the fun. Angry at the moon for his lack of support, and further upset over being called a jerk by his BF; the sun shouts at the moon that its reflection is useless. The argument gets nastier as each ignores their responsibilities during the loud argument; neither considered unintended consequences on the innocent people on earth. When each finally calms down and realizes how out of control their respective temper was, both suffers from remorse and vow to never lose control again while making things right.

This is a terrific fable targeting elementary school children. The story line focuses on the consequences of the out of control argument that increasingly heats up while also providing a strong moral stance that flaring tempers cause problems and people must be responsible and accountable for their actions. Although the rhymes at times seem awkward, young readers will enjoy the well written tale, brightened up by Buddy Plumlee's strong illustrations.

Harriet Klausner