My sweetheart’s the Man in the Moon by Stephen Marlowe“My Sweetheart’s the Man in the Moon” is a charming and whimsical children’s book by American author and illustrator William Joyce.
First published in 1982, the book tells the story of a young girl named Elsie who falls in love with the man in the moon and embarks on a fanciful adventure to visit him in space.
The story opens with Elsie gazing up at the moon and wishing she could meet the man who lives there. To her surprise, the man in the moon answers her wish, inviting her on a journey through space to visit him.
With the help of a friendly rocket ship named Rusty, Elsie sets out on her adventure, encountering all sorts of strange and wonderful creatures along the way. She meets a group of aliens who speak in rhyme, travels through a glittering asteroid field, and even faces down a fearsome space monster.
Throughout her journey, Elsie remains steadfast in her love for the man in the moon, and her determination to meet him and tell him how she feels. When she finally arrives at the moon, she discovers that the man in the moon has been waiting for her, and he invites her to stay with him in his cozy lunar home.
The book is filled with lush and imaginative illustrations, featuring vivid depictions of the fantastical creatures and landscapes that Elsie encounters on her journey. Joyce’s art is filled with whimsy and charm, capturing the sense of wonder and adventure that infuses the story.
At its core, “My Sweetheart’s the Man in the Moon” is a celebration of the power of imagination and the boundless possibilities of childhood. Through Elsie’s journey, Joyce encourages children to dream big and to believe in the magic of the world around them. The book also explores the themes of love, courage, and determination, as Elsie overcomes obstacles and faces down her fears in order to reach the man in the moon.
The book’s title and central premise are drawn from an old nursery rhyme, which itself speaks to the enduring appeal of the idea of the man in the moon as a symbol of romance and wonder. Joyce’s book updates this classic concept for a modern audience, imbuing it with a sense of playfulness and whimsy that will delight readers of all ages.
“My Sweetheart’s the Man in the Moon” has become a beloved classic of children’s literature since its publication, inspiring generations of young readers to embrace their imaginations and believe in the power of love and adventure. Its enduring popularity is a testament to the timeless appeal of its themes and the captivating charm of Joyce’s storytelling and illustrations.
