Recently I was asked to write a review on Stella Couldn’t Sleep. The front cover of the book immediately drew me in with its gentle illustration of Stella in bed surrounded by her animal friends. As you continue to read the story the illustrations depict the tender, loving connections between adults and their offspring. The colours in the illustrations are muted, gentle and engaging.
The cadence of the language allows the reader to let the words flow over the audience, with younger children easily picking up the repetition of the chorus. It will be a book that will be a favourite on classroom and home bookshelves.
The characters are very relatable which makes the reader and the audience want to find out what finally helps Stella get to sleep. An added bonus in my opinion is that the lead characters are female.
A truly enjoyable children’s picture book which I intend to add to my grandchildren’s book shelf.
Marina Zakryszka (Retired Primary Teacher,Former Literacy LeaderPrimary Teacher of the Year 2008Doting Nana to Arthur and Bridget)
Love it, Such a simple, yet powerfull story, that is not just entertaining but, can also be used to teach the name of typical farm animals and their babies. it can also be used on Mother’s day, as well as teaching about love and families.
Sophie
‘William said Wow is beautifully written, bringing the wonders of our world and the magic of the connection between grandchildren and grandparents, together in a book to be shared and enjoyed.’
Paul Walsh
This seemingly simple story has multiple dimensions. Superficially it teaches a little geography, environmental awareness and lots about communication and family, which is underpinned by that special love that spans generations.
The Wonders of the World is an ideal platform from which to convey some valuable life lessons; in this case from grandfather to grandson. But it’s also about the innocence, respect and excitement that children sometimes express more lovingly and candidly towards grandparents.
The children who read this book, or have it read to them, will no doubt enjoy the story but more importantly, absorb the feelings and values that are skilfully woven through it.
Thank you, from a grandfather who is now a little more optimistic about how future generations might build their future. Very well done!
Robert Rob
This is a book of layered storytelling, it’s easy to be caught up in the adventures of William and his Grandpa as they explore many exciting and exotic locations (even had me wanting to know more and googling a few!); but the underpinning message is that it is our shared experiences in life that bring enduring joy. The simple act of reading to a child is just one of these. A great story for many ages, I’ll look forward to reading this one to my four grandchildren.
Alison Hunter
This is a truly special book. It’s a simple story, yet it’s filled with adventure, taking us on an exciting journey around the world, through its fantastic settings. But more importantly, it imparts deep truths and wisdom, and speaks volumes about the love of family.
Gloria Amici (Primary Teacher, Australia)
Leo’s Moon is a charming book. I love how it is based on real life. I love how Leo truly understands how people are treating the earth and you know, if we all do something little to help, the world will become a better and safer place for us all.
Manon
I think it’s wonderful to clean up the earth, that way we can all see the beauty. And in Leo’s Moon, it gives people great ideas on how to keep our world clean.
Hannah
I really liked your book. It was inspirational and I’m sure people are not inspired to look after the environment. Great book, great inspirations! Loved It!
Ella
5 stars. I rate this story Leo’s Moon 5 out of 5 stars because it is a lovely and heart warming story!
Caitlin
We really enjoyed reading The Boy Without a Friend by Bruce Jassett, These Are My Faces by Bret J. Ludwick and Leo’s Moon by Cinthia del Grosso.
Now, these books aren’t crazy popular like other books and that is really what I liked most about them. When preparing for Kindergarten, a variety is best when it comes to reading. Just like you and I, children will have different tastes in books. My 5-year-old is on the more serious side and he enjoys books that are more realistic. My 4 year still enjoys the bright colourful books you find in every book section. That’s okay!
BeautyBrite.com
It was amazing “Leo’s Moon” is one of the most delightful books of our time. It relays to the reader it’s very important environmental message in such a lovely way & the illustrations are wonderful. It’s my favourite gift for those with young families & I believe it belongs on everyone’s bookshelf.
Lisa
5 stars. Leo’s Moon was a great book.
I liked how it’s about saving the planet and making the earth happy and healthy again. I give this book five stars!
Isabella
I’d like you to know that my little Leo loves his Leo’s Moon book. It has pride of place beside his cot and we read it each morning and every night.
Rebecca
Adorable!
Megan Pighetti
5 stars. Leo’s Moon was a great book.
I liked how it’s about saving the planet and making the earth happy and healthy again. I give this book five stars!
Isabella
It was amazing. Leo’s Moon captures my children’s attention and has helped my children understand the impact of their actions on the environment. A difficult lesson to impart as a parent, I highly recommend.
James
If we could view earth from Leo’s moon, we would say “wow” for its shear beauty from that vantage point. But to have a grandpa (or father) take us on a journey of wonder and awe, who shares the majesty and delicacy of the world we inhabit – that is true magic. The author’s father was that person through his camera’s lens, travels and generous spirit. So the legacy continues, from his daughter and great-grandchild giving us this view from the heavens. All I can say is “Wow!” and thank you.
Vivian Scanlon
Congrats to Cinthia Del Grosso on the publication of Leo’s Moon. Published by Austin Macauley, in paperback, hardcopy and ebook. For ages 4 – 8, and their parents and teachers. Leo wants to make the moon happy by cleaning up the earth. He comes up with a ‘big idea’ that reminds us that we can all change our ways and do our little bit to make the earth healthy again. Can be used by teachers and parents to discuss environmental sustainability, personal responsibility, role of community and connection to IT, with all age groups. Always a welcome topic – congrats again Cinthia!
Society of Children’s Books Writers and Illustrators
A wonderful story that reminds us how a ‘big idea’ can influence many people to work together and make our world a better place. Leo’s Moon is a beautifully written and illustrated book that will warm the heart of every child and every parent!