description Goodnight Moon Overview
Margaret Wise Brown's 'Goodnight Moon' is a timeless bedtime story that soothes children into sleep. The story follows a young rabbit saying goodnight to all the familiar objects in his room. The gentle rhyme and repetitive phrases create a calming rhythm, while Clement Hurd's illustrations offer a detailed and comforting view of the rabbit's world. It's ideal for children aged 1-4, providing a sense of security and routine before bedtime.
Its enduring popularity stems from its simple elegance and universal themes of comfort and closure.
info Goodnight Moon Specifications
| Isbn | 978-0694003617 (board) |
| Title | Goodnight Moon |
| Author | Margaret Wise Brown |
| Awards | inducted into the New York Public Library's 100 Best Books for Babies |
| Format | Hardcover, Board Book, Paperback |
| Language | English (30+ translations available) |
| Publisher | HarperFestival (board); Random House (hardcover) |
| Page Count | 32 pages (hardcover); 24-32 pages (board editions) |
| Illustrator | Clement Hurd |
| Recommended Age | 0-3 years |
| Publication Year | 1947 |
balance Goodnight Moon Pros & Cons
- Calming, rhythmic rhyme pattern that creates a soothing bedtime routine and helps children wind down for sleep
- Simple, repetitive structure allows children to anticipate the next line, building confidence and engagement
- Classic 1947 illustrations by Clement Hurd remain timeless and visually appealing across generations
- Educational value through object identification - children learn to name items in the room as the rabbit says goodnight
- Board book editions are durable and safe for teething babies and young toddlers
- Establishes healthy sleep associations and predictable bedtime ritual
- Minimal narrative complexity offers limited engagement for children over age 4
- Text-only format lacks interactive elements found in modern children's books
- Original hardcover lacks features like lift-the-flaps or touch-and-feel textures
- Some parents find the repetitive nature becomes tedious after hundreds of readings
- Limited availability of special editions with enhanced features at standard price points
help Goodnight Moon FAQ
What age range is Goodnight Moon appropriate for?
Goodnight Moon is ideal for infants through age 3, with board book editions safe for babies 6 months and older. The simple images and repetitive text engage pre-readers best, while toddlers benefit from the object-identification learning.
How many pages does Goodnight Moon have?
The original hardcover edition contains 32 pages. Board book versions typically have 24-32 thick, durable pages designed to withstand rough handling from young children.
Is Goodnight Moon available as a board book?
Yes, multiple board book editions exist, including the classic red/green room version and special 75th anniversary editions. Board books are highly recommended for children under 2 due to their durability.
What makes Goodnight Moon effective for bedtime?
The gentle, descending rhythm mirrors the natural wind-down process. As the room grows darker in illustrations and objects are bid farewell, children mentally prepare for sleep in a non-stimulating, predictable manner.
Who wrote and illustrated Goodnight Moon?
Margaret Wise Brown authored the text, published in 1947. Clement Hurd created the iconic illustrations featuring the great green room with its red balloon and sleeping moon.
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Parents of infants and toddlers seeking a proven, calming bedtime story that establishes a soothing sleep routine.
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What are the key specifications of Goodnight Moon?
- ISBN: 978-0694003617 (board)
- Title: Goodnight Moon
- Author: Margaret Wise Brown
- Awards: inducted into the New York Public Library's 100 Best Books for Babies
- Format: Hardcover, Board Book, Paperback
- Language: English (30+ translations available)
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