Goodnight Moon
A little rabbit says goodnight to everything in the great green room.
Goodnight Moon is a bedtime picture book by Margaret Wise Brown, illustrated by Clement Hurd, first published in 1947. It is number 8 in our list of the best children’s books of all time. A little rabbit says goodnight to everything in the great green room.
What is Goodnight Moon about?
Before going to sleep, a little rabbit says goodnight to everything in his room, one by one, from the clocks and socks to the moon. The words are soft and slow, and the pictures get a little darker as the story goes on.
It was published in 1947 with pictures by Clement Hurd.
Book details
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Author | Margaret Wise Brown |
| Illustrator | Clement Hurd |
| First published | 1947 |
| Type | Bedtime picture book |
| Age guide | 0 to 3 |
Why children enjoy Goodnight Moon
- A hypnotic, lullaby-like rhythm that helps children wind down.
- Familiar household objects that toddlers can name and point to.
- A calm ending that signals sleep.
Reading and talking tips
- Read it softly and slowly.
- Let your child say goodnight to things in their own room.
- Make it the last book of the night.
About Margaret Wise Brown
Margaret Wise Brown was born on 23 May 1910 in Brooklyn, New York, and died on 13 November 1952. She wrote Goodnight Moon (1947), illustrated by Clement Hurd.
Read more on our Margaret Wise Brown author page.
If your child likes this, try…
See all 20 in our best children’s books of all time.
Frequently asked questions
What age is Goodnight Moon for?
It is best for babies and toddlers, up to about age 3.
Who wrote Goodnight Moon?
Margaret Wise Brown wrote it and Clement Hurd drew the pictures.
Where can I borrow Goodnight Moon?
Most public libraries stock it. See our guide to children’s books and your local library.