A book that brings out a baby’s smile and warmly wraps the entire family’s heart—this is “Good Evening, Moon”, written and illustrated by Akiko Hayashi. Since its first publication in 1986, it has continued to be read in many households as a true Japanese picture book classic. Below is a gentle introduction to its charm and key details, formatted so you can paste it directly into your WordPress editor.
Book Information
- Title: Good Evening, Moon
- Author & Illustrator: Akiko Hayashi
- Publisher: Fukuinkan Shoten
- Publication Date: June 20, 1986
- Price: ¥800 (excluding tax)
- Size: 18×18 cm
- Page Count: 20 pages
- Recommended Age: Approximately 0–2 years (even newborns can enjoy it)
- Series: Part of the “Kutsukutsu Aruke” series (Volume 4 of 4)
- Copies Sold: Over 2.38 million copies (as of May 2025) – a true Long-Seller
What Kind of Book Is It?
“Good Evening, Moon” is a Long-Seller picture book created so that tiny babies can enjoy their very first “story picture book” while being held in their parent’s arms. On each spread, a gentle, round moon greets the reader, inviting the baby to say, “Oh, it’s the moon!” The simple, rhythmic structure—where clouds drift by and subtly change the moon’s expression—helps little ones follow along easily. With only 20 pages, it’s compact enough for babies who cannot yet sit through a long story.
The illustrations by Akiko Hayashi have a soft touch that, combined with the soothing text, gently stimulate a baby’s senses. The nighttime setting conveys a quiet calm, but the moon is drawn with a warm, slightly rosy hue, making the simple color palette easy for infants to recognize and enjoy.
From around four to five months old, babies begin to deepen their understanding of shapes and objects. At this stage, noticing the moon, clouds, and tiny stars and comparing their subtle changes helps develop visual perception. When parents say “Good evening, moon,” it creates a calm bonding moment that becomes part of a baby’s nightly routine.
Recommended Points
- Perfect for First-Time Read-Alouds
With only 20 pages, this short tale easily holds a baby’s attention from start to finish. It’s an ideal “first read-aloud” book for a peaceful parent-child time. - Clever Rhythmic Repetition
The repeated phrase, “Good evening, moon. Good evening, moon,” sounds delightful to a baby’s ears. Reading it aloud each night gives the child a comforting sense of familiarity, and they soon learn to anticipate what happens next. - Visually Appealing Illustrations
The changing expressions on the moon, along with adorable clouds and tiny stars, captivate babies. The bright, simple colors encourage visual development. - Universally Loved Over Generations
Published in 1986 and with nearly 2.4 million copies sold—as a Long-Seller recommendation—this book has been passed down from one generation to the next. It’s a staple gift for newborn celebrations. - Deepens Parent-Child Communication
As you turn pages saying, “Look, a cloud passed by,” or “The moon got bigger,” you deepen your bond with your baby. Incorporating it into a bedtime routine can also help establish healthy sleep habits.
Who Is This Book For?
- Babies and Toddlers (0–2 years old)
Even if they can’t read yet, they’ll delight in the simple phrases and gentle illustrations. It’s ideal for their first picture book experience and helps build early vocabulary recognition. - Families Looking for a Soothing Bedtime Routine
Saying “Good evening, moon” each night creates a calm, reassuring atmosphere that helps babies wind down before sleep. - Decorative Gift for Any Nursery
The minimalist yet warm cover design makes it a lovely accent on a bookshelf, adding to the nursery’s cozy atmosphere even when it’s not being read.
Sales & Reception
- Copies Sold: Over 2.38 million
A certified million-seller, beloved by multiple generations. As a trusted Long-Seller, it continues to be gifted at baby showers and enjoyed in countless households. - Reader Comments (Sample):
- “Every night when we read this, my baby smiles so bright!”
- “My little one points at the moon and giggles—such a joy to watch.”
- “I remember my parents reading this to me, so now I’m sharing it with my own child.”
Conclusion
“Good Evening, Moon” is a Japanese picture book that offers both cultural depth and a warm, short story perfect for babies aged 0–2 years. As a Long-Seller recommendation, it’s a reliable choice for first-time read-aloud experiences, helping your child become friends with the moon while strengthening the parent-child bond. If you’re looking for a timeless bedtime story that’s been cherished for decades, this is the book to bring into your home.
(Good Evening, Moon: Akiko Hayashi / Fukuinkan Shoten / Published June 20, 1986)
English version↓
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