Grandmother Moon

Grandmother Moon by Wunneanatsu Lamb-Cason, beautifully illustrated by Trisha B. Waters, is a tender and heartfelt picture book that blends modern storytelling with deep Indigenous tradition. The narrative follows a young girl riding in the car with her grandmother, who shares teachings about Grandmother Moon and her place in their culture. The result is a gentle, reflective story that feels both intimate and timeless, offering a wonderful introduction to Indigenous cosmology and intergenerational wisdom.

Lamb-Cason’s writing is warm and accessible, making the teachings feel personal rather than distant or symbolic. The relationship between the girl and her grandmother is one of the book’s strongest elements; soft, loving, and grounded in everyday life. The inclusion of backmatter, such as the moon calendar, adds meaningful educational value and encourages young readers to continue thinking about the story long after the final page.

The watercolor illustrations by Trisha B. Waters complement the text with earthy, natural tones that fit the theme beautifully. They bring the story’s spiritual elements to life with a soft and almost dreamlike atmosphere. However, one potential drawback, at least for my household, is the depiction of the moon’s face. While it’s meant to embody Grandmother Moon’s protective presence, my child personally found it a bit unsettling. This won’t be an issue for every reader, but it’s something to keep in mind.

Overall, I’d give Grandmother Moon is a sweet, culturally rich story steeped in tradition and myth, with heartfelt themes and thoughtful artwork. It’s an excellent choice for families, classrooms, or anyone looking to broaden their children’s library with authentic Indigenous storytelling.