A DRESS FOR THE MOON

In this Austrian import, dressing a waxing and waning moon poses a challenge for a tailor.

Inspired by the luminous light of the moon, people go out for walks in their fanciest frocks. Gazing down in awe at their fabulous fashion, the Moon wants a beautiful dress, too. A tailor eagerly agrees to help. After taking measurements and toiling away in his studio (draped in vibrant floral and paisley patterns that also adorn the endpapers), he presents the dress to the moon, only to find that it no longer fits: The once full moon is now a half moon! As the lunar cycle continues, the frustrated tailor must make numerous alterations. Eventually, the tailor and the moon come to an important realization: We all shine brightest when being ourselves. Wolfsgruber has produced a truly original tale that reminds young readers to see the inherent value in themselves and others. Relying on a stark palette of blacks, tans, and pastels, Wolfsgruber’s stunning collage art adds whimsy and humor, mixing homey settings with some truly enchanting details (the moon’s glow is depicted using sparkly gray felt; to make his way to the far-off moon, the tailor drives or walks along roads made up of measuring tape). The text is full of repetition, with a buoyant flow, making this a natural read-aloud choice.

Truly luminous.