As July comes to a close, it’s time to wrap up my Story Swirl series. This project was so much fun to brainstorm and research… and this last book will leave you wishing you could read under the moonlight every single night!
Middle Grade Book: The Girl Who Drank the Moon (Newbery Medal Winner)
By Kelly Barnhill
In a world divided by fear and forgotten truths, a baby raised by a kind witch grows into a girl brimming with unexpected magic. As Luna’s powers awaken, she discovers a destiny much bigger—and more beautiful—than she ever imagined. This story is lyrical, luminous, and layered with heart.
This Book Feels Like:
- Moonlight caught in a teacup
- A candle flickering in a tower window
- The hush of the forest when the trees are listening
- The moment you realize your feelings are your magic
Mini Wonder Prompt:
What if moonlight could hold your feelings—joy, sorrow, wonder—and gently return them to you when you needed them most?
Where would you keep your moonlight? What would you hope it carried?
Mighty Activity Spark:
Moon Magic Jar (Solo reflection + Emotional storytelling focus)
Create a shimmering jar that holds your own kind of magic…just like Luna’s quiet, swirling power.
You’ll Need:
- A small clear jar with lid
- Water
- Silver or violet glitter
- Glow-in-the-dark stars or moon confetti
- A drop of glycerin or clear glue
- A tiny slip of paper and a pen
- Ribbon or string to decorate
Steps:
- Fill your jar with water.
- Add glitter—your bottled moonlight!
- Drop in glow stars or moons to light your path.
- Add glycerin or glue to slow the swirl.
- On your paper slip, write:
One emotion you’d like to release… or one you want to hold onto. - Seal the jar and give it a gentle shake. Watch your feelings dance like moonbeams in the dark.
Activity Twist: Display your jar near a window or reading nook. Use it as a quiet reminder that your emotions are not only okay—they’re powerful.
I hope you enjoyed this middle grade book-focused series. In August, I’ll be adding a new website tab, bursting with an ever-growing vault of imaginative prompts. Stay tuned!
Until then…enjoy a bit of summer moonlight reading and keep on wishing those spectacularly special wishes!
