Recommended children's booklists sorted by age or topic

Home > Books > Mooncat and Me

Mooncat and Me

Please login to bookmark

Book Synopsis

With colourful pages thronging with modern city life, Mooncat and Me tells the story of Pearl as she overcomes the anxiety of moving house and starting a new school, with the help of a giant white cat.

We can all empathise with Pearl’s fear that ‘I won’t know anyone, and no one will know me’ but as we watch her grow in confidence, we will learn that with a bit of imagination and determination, there’s nothing we can’t do.

The gorgeous, brightly coloured illustrations are full of busy people filling pavements and buses and cars, or seen through the windows of their homes, leading their different lives. Mooncat’s own calm and reassuring presence encourages Pearl to explore the vibrant city with her mother, and to face school, where she soon finds there are friends to be made.

Our Review Panel says...

A beautiful book exploring the theme of change and transition and in particular dealing with the anxiety around moving house and changing schools. The book is full of imagination, depicted through the main character, Pearl, who expresses her thoughts and feelings about the changes she is experiencing in a relatable way. This book reminds readers about the importance of not having to face challenges alone and that it’s OK to ask for help.

Moving home is a real emotional rollercoaster for Pearl, supported by her imaginary Mooncat when she needs him most. Mooncat helps Pearl feel safe as she explores her new surroundings with her mum and when she faces the challenge of starting her new school.

The story ends perfectly and although this is a must-read for a child moving house or school, it’s a beautiful story for all as way to explore dealing with the changes and transitions we encounter in different stages of life. I especially loved the details in some of the pictures, especially where they depicted different people – a great opportunity to use imagination and wonder empathically about the stories about the lives of others. The reader might wonder if Mooncat visits them too.