September's BOM: Under the Lemon Moon

Under the Lemon Moon
by Edith Hope Fine
Illustrated by René King Moreno

The LBBC’s recommendation for September’s Libro del Mes, is Edith Hope Fine’s Under the Lemon Moon.

How could we not include this classic story in our Libro del Mes category?

Under the Lemon Moon is the moving story of a young girl, Rosalinda, who awakens one night to discover an intruder in her garden. Summoning her courage (and her pet chicken, Blanca) Rosalinda creeps outside and frightens away the thief who is stealing her lemons. Days later, when her precious lemon tree begins to wilt, Rosalinda sets out with Blanca to find a cure. The ending will, in fact, steal your heart and those of your children.

With allusions to Latino folklore, the imagery is powerful, but gentle enough for little minds. The story’s lessons of compassion and forgiveness are a wonderful treasure that you can give your children. Sin dudo, this has to be the most beautiful children’s story that I have ever read. And, to be honest, it is impossible for me to make it through to the end without tears splashing from my eyes.

It, therefore, comes as no surprise to learn that this book has received numerous awards, including The 50 Best Children's Books (Parents Magazine), Children's Books Mean Business (Children's Books Council),Notable Social Studies Trade Books for Young People (NCSS/CBC), Honor Book (Society of School Librarians International), Parents' Choice Silver Honor winner, and the Smithsonian Notable Children's Book. I think it is a shame that this book cannot receive a Pura Belpré Honor Medal for illustration.

Under the Lemon Moon is written in English with Spanish words and phrases sprinkled throughout the text. Their placement adds to the richness of the story and helps to create the mood and rhythm. In addition, Latino parents (and children) may relate to some of the traditions described in the book, like this passage:

"What should I do for my tree, Abuela?"

"It will take time for your tree to heal, m’ija," she said. "I will light a candle for you."

I haven’t done that, thought Rosalinda. Aloud she said, "Gracias, Abuelita." Abuela eased the worries from Rosalinda’s forehead with her warm hand. "The candle will help, Rosalinda," Abuela said quietly. "Perhaps it will summon La Anciana, the Old One. She helps things grow."
Everyone had heard rumors of La Anciana, of her powers for bringing rain and making crops grow strong and tall. "Tell me again, Abuela," said Rosalinda…

René King Moreno’s illustrations are soft and warm. They easily portray life in a small Mexican town, with its emphasis on simplicity and nature. The images are luminous and her attention to detail, lend authenticity to the storyline. She uses textures and motifs to add depth and signal changes.

This book is an excellent bridge for introducing the topic of forgiveness, compassion, sharing, selflessness, helping others, poverty, and family. As a parent, I was appreciative of the fact that this story provides an opportunity to discuss generosity towards those less fortunate.

Edith Fine has a great web page for this book with activities for children. It includes activities for Language Arts, Science, Math and Art. So if you’d like to explore the story more in depth with your children, you can check it out here.

If you would like to buy your own copy of Under the Lemon Moon, please click here. Or you can follow the link in our sidebar to the LBBC’s on-line store. We have both new and gently used copies available.