A Simple Book for Catastrophic Times: The Moon Came Down on Milk Street

As much as we try to keep our children safe and warm, life happens: a grandparent dies, the car crashes, a city event like a strike or a riot disrupts our daily routines. Children look to us for stability when their world feels shaken.

The metaphor is put to good use on “Milk Street” as Jean Gralley directs the reader to follow the advice of Fred Rogers’ mother. She told him if he saw a car accident or terrifying scene, “Look for the helpers.”

As you read this silly primary bedtime book with your child you will enjoy the Maurice Sendak-like illustrations and the gentle way in which a potential tragedy is presented and then solved.

Children will love the childlike community helpers as they work together to put life back the way it was. They will enjoy naming the various helpers learning vocabulary as they see everyone helping.

As the book ends, all is right with the world, the moon is back in the sky, and sleepy children are asleep. A soft, imaginary tale to help children trust in the world as changes occur and we all work to put it back together.