The Moon of Kyiv
Originally published in Italy in March 2023 , The Moon of Kyiv was an immediate response to the crisis in Ukraine. Walker books have now released this version for Ireland and the UK, with all net profit donated to Save the Children fund.
The Moon of Kyiv is a simple poem about our shared humanity, which was composed by the late Italian children's author, Gianni Rodari. It was written to be read aloud, and to share the important message that beneath the light of the moon, we are all equal. It would be a good way to encourage children to speak about the conflict, about peace and their fears, while comforting them by showing how we are more connected than divided.
The poem is thoughtfully illustrated by Beatrice Alemagna, who uses child-like drawings and patterns. The chalky images beg to be touched and the simple, happy images remind us how beautiful the world is too. The Moon of Kyiv is a wise and optimistic book, and we could all do with a little more wisdom and optimism these days