BENEATH THE SAME ROUND MOON

On the eve of an autumnal holiday, a young girl grapples with change.

Pearl loves to celebrate the Mooncake Festival (also called the Mid-Autumn Festival, which in many Asian countries honors the full moon), but this year proves more complicated. Her Bàba, a pilot, is away for work and won’t be able to swing her in his arms toward the moon; her older sister, Jiějie, is away at college and can’t make paper lanterns with her. And Yéye (Grandfather), who used to tell her the story of the goddess Chang’e, recently died. Māma explains that changes, even unwelcome ones, are a natural part of life. The arrival of Nǎinai (Grandmother) marks a turn in perspective as she unpacks ingredients to make traditional holiday foods, including the essential mooncakes. Pearl feels better; she begins making paper lanterns and chats by video with Bàba and Jiějie. “My moon’s gone from sight but still here,” Bàba says. “Just like Yéye,” responds Pearl. Pham and Nguyễn’s artful use of light and shadow brings warmth and depth to the characters, surrounded by textured sceneries. Their illustrations chart Pearl’s emotional arc as she finds joy and connection in long-held traditions, realizing that no matter what, her absent family members are always with her. Mandarin words are deftly incorporated throughout.

An enchanting tribute to a beloved holiday and warm acknowledgment that familial bonds are a constant despite change.