How the Moon Regained Her Shape    by Janet Ruth Heller & Ben Hodson Order:  USA  Can Arbordale, 2007 (2006) Hardcover, Softcover Read an Excerpt     Reviewed by Hilary Williamson In How the Moon Regained Her Shape, Janet Ruth Heller tells a story about recovering from bullying, centered on the phases of the moon and 'influenced by Native American folktales'. Ben Hodson's lushly detailed illustrations emphasize that context. It begins, 'Once the moon was round and full, proud of her gentle light. She did not fear the darkness around her. She danced across the sky, laughing as she twirled her skirts.' But one day, 'she danced across the face of the sun', who angrily called her ugly and told her that no-one needed her. Shamed and tormented, the moon shrunk into 'a sliver of her former self.' But when friends convinced her that she was loved, she grew full again, encouraged by their admiration. At the back of the book is an excellent section on Moon Observations, explaining lunar phases, showing lunar orbits, and suggesting projects like Lunar Calendar and Edible Moon Cookies. There is also a sensible comment on bullying, including the wise advice that 'Children who are being bullied often need the help and support of their friends, just as the moon does in this story.' Note: Opinions expressed in reviews and articles on this site are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of BookLoons. Find more Kids books on our Shelves or in our book Reviews