Apparently Moomins are a thing that Americans know nothing about. I found this big beautiful book in the resale bookstore and thought it looked intriguing. I’ve been looking for longer picture books to read to my 5-year-old. She loves to listen to long chapter books with me but sometimes I just want to start and finish a book in one sitting. This book was delightful. It was quirky, weird, and so funny. Even for all of its quirkiness, it had some great values!
I loved that the Moominpappa wanted to take the family on an adventure. I loved that the Sniff character who was described as conceited had a bag full of treasure that he lost some of along the way. The family didn’t value or care about the treasure, it’s not really part of the story just something that is overvalued and lost right away.
These characters and stories were created by the Finnish author and artist Tove Jansson and have become known and loved worldwide, especially in Japan. But somehow we missed it here in the States. And I’m here to tell you we missed out on a gem. I’ve requested many more Moomin books from the library and I’m thinking I might now need a Moomin sweatshirt. Or maybe even Moomin Halloween costume anyone? Anyone?
The link to purchase the books is an Amazon Affiliate link, which means that I may receive a small compensation for promoting the book, while the price is the same for you! Win, win!
Moomintroll Sets Sail. Adapted from the Tove Jansson Classic
Alex Haridi, Cecilia Davidsson, and Filippa Widlund for Macmillan Children’s Books.
Ages: 5-8
Themes: Family, Adventure,
