As a working parent, my days often feel like a balancing act between responsibilities, fleeting moments of joy, and the inevitable emotional fluctuations that come with both work and family life. In the midst of this whirlwind, I find solace in stories that reflect our experiences—tales that remind us of the beauty in connection and the importance of communication. One such story is What the Sun Says to the Moon by Anna Katrina Velilla-Milan.
A Celestial Conversation
The narrative opens with a captivating question: What does the sun say to the moon when they meet in the sky? Through playful dialogues, Velilla-Milan beautifully illustrates the bond between these two cosmic entities, showcasing their interactions at sunset—an ephemeral moment where they can connect before the sun retreats to illuminate the day and the moon takes the stage for the night.
Over the course of a week, the sun and moon discuss life, peace, and the wonders of the world, each day painted with vibrant hues reflecting their emotions. However, the story takes a poignant turn on Saturday when the moon fails to appear, leaving the sun feeling flustered and abandoned. This conflict not only adds depth to the narrative but also serves as a gentle reminder of the importance of communication in any relationship. By Sunday, the sun and moon reconcile, bringing the story to a heartwarming conclusion filled with a rainbow—an emblem of hope and promise, reminding us that brighter days are always ahead.
Inspiration Behind the Tale
What makes this book particularly special is the heartfelt inspiration behind it. Velilla-Milan’s journey began during a tender moment of “pillow talk” with her then five-year-old son, who mused, “the sun & the moon like to stay together, but they can’t stay together all the time.” This simple yet profound reflection prompted the author to wonder about the nature of their relationship, leading to this beautifully crafted story.
Through her writing, Velilla-Milan aims to foster meaningful conversations between parents and children—conversations that can unfold during pillow talk, at the dinner table, or in those spontaneous, everyday moments that often lead to the most profound discussions.
A Personal Connection
As a mother of a four-year-old girl, I found myself deeply resonating with this narrative. My husband and I balance our work lives—he from home and I in the office—often taking shifts to care for our daughter. Like the sun and moon, our days vary dramatically. There are days when everything seems easy and happy, where laughter fills our home. Yet there are also days when we feel exhausted, where tempers flare and emotions run high. Some days bring a sense of peace and tranquility, while others leave us navigating challenges that can strain our connections.
All of these emotional ups and downs are completely normal, just like the ever-changing dance of the sun and moon. This story beautifully mirrors our family dynamics, illustrating the emotional spectrum we experience from Monday to Sunday. Just as the sun and moon experience moments of joy and conflict, we too have our ups and downs. This narrative provides a wonderful framework for discussing these fluctuations with my daughter, helping her understand that it’s natural to have days filled with both light and shadow.
Through it all, we are reminded of God’s promise—that He is in control and that, just as the sun and moon return to one another, we too can find our way back to love and understanding.
Themes of Connection and Understanding
At its core, What the Sun Says to the Moon is not just a tale of celestial beings; it’s a poignant exploration of emotions and relationships. The book addresses themes of friendship, emotional honesty, and the importance of communication, making it an ideal read for families. It serves as a gentle reminder that feelings can fluctuate and that understanding and connection are vital in nurturing our relationships.
The stunning illustrations is a kaleidoscope of colors, each hue representing the evolving emotional landscape of the characters. This visual element undoubtedly enhances the narrative, making it all the more engaging for young readers.
Why You Should Grab Your Own Copy
To encapsulate, What the Sun Says to the Moon is a delightful gem that deserves a place on every child’s bookshelf. It combines imaginative storytelling with valuable life lessons, making it perfect for bedtime reading or as a conversation starter during family discussions.
As you embark on this celestial journey, take a moment to reflect on your own “sun and moon” stories. What connections do you cherish in your life? This charming tale not only entertains but also encourages families to share their experiences, fostering deeper bonds through meaningful dialogue. In a world where time often feels fleeting, let this book remind you to cherish those moments of connection—just as the sun and moon do, lighting up the sky with their love and understanding.
If you’re ready to explore this enchanting story with your own children, you can purchase What the Sun Says to the Moon at 29 Kapitolyo Art Space or online at Ukiyoto Philippines. Grab your copy today and let the journey begin!