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Nana Star and the Moonman

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My daughters have two new friends – their names are Nana Star and the Moonman. They are the main characters in an award-winning series of children’s books that we recently had the chance to review.

nana-star-logo

Written by sisters Elizabeth Sills and Elena Patrice and illustrated by their mom, Linda Saker, Nana Star tells the tale of a little girl that goes on a magical adventure to bring a lost baby star home. The story is simple enough that my 4-year old could summarize it after the first time we read it together, but powerful at the same time, encouraging compassion and generosity in such a beautiful manner.

Nana Star and the Moonman is the second inspiring story in the series. It starts where the first story left off, with Nana Star beginning her journey to help baby star find his way home. Before she knows it, night falls and the world has gone to bed without her. She feels scared and alone in the dark, but with the help of her new friend the Moonman, she learns that she is never alone. He is always watching over and guiding her along, even if she can’t see him.

The books are well-made and the illustrations are beautiful, yet accessible to kids. What I mean by that is that the artwork is obviously done by hand and could inspire little girls (and boys!) do draw their own versions of Nana Star and the Moonman. To foster their reading skills, each Nana Star storybook includes a mistake in the text for young readers to find. When children send Nana Star a note correcting the mistake, they become special members of her Little Twinkles Club. Each member receives an autographed photo of the real Nana Star with a personalized message, as well as a certificate of membership.

The Nana Star series of children’s books has won various awards, and I can see why. This is such a well-rounded product line! I love the seamless integration of book, plush, CD, and companion website.

Product review: Nana Star and the Moonman

Product review: Nana Star and the MoonmanThe Nana Star doll is poseable and soft, and even comes with little extras that tie in with the story. Maya was captivated by her blue dress, which she always associates with being a princess. The Moonman plush isn’t just a lovey, he’s a nightlight, glowing when you squeeze him. He plays a lullaby when hugged, and has such a comforting quality about him. Just looking at his sweet face makes you feel calm!

Included with every book is a companion CD. I loaded both CDs on to my iPod so Maya can read along with the books whenever the mood strikes. The story is short enough that it keeps her attention, yet still gives me a few minutes of quiet time because she usually likes to hear it more than once. The only thing I’d change would be to maybe add some kind of chime or page-turning sound so that she knows when she should turn to the next page. She’ll be reading before I know it, though, with the help of Nana Star! The CDs also include the Nana Star and Moonman themes, respectively, which are sweet, shorter versions of the stories told in the books.

On the Nana Star website you can find videos, song lyrics, and meet all of Nana Star’s friends. In an effort to be fully available to children of all needs, Nana Star stories and songs are interpreted in sign language as well. Parents and educators can download and print coloring pages and learning lessons from the website, which I found particularly helpful since we’re homeschooling at the moment.

Product review: Nana Star and the MoonmanNana Star and the Moonman really came to us at the perfect time. Maya’s been increasingly scared of the dark over the past few weeks. The messages contained in the books, particularly the second one in the series, have been very effective. She’s slept with the Moonman by her side for several nights now, and hasn’t woken up crying in the middle of the night as she was so frequently doing before. MJ instantly fell in love with the Moonman the moment she saw him, so much so that I was almost tempted to buy a second one for her. We’ve managed to develop a system where she plays with the Moonman throughout the day and he goes to bed with Maya at night, so it’s all working out nicely.

I noticed that Nana Star lives right here in Northern Virginia, so we may just get a chance to meet her and the Moonman in real life one of these days! I’m also looking forward to adding to our collection when Nana Star and the Blue Wolf is released in the Spring. It always feels good to buy a product that is unique and inherently valuable, but also gives back, and Nana Star does this and more – a portion of all book and merchandise sales go directly to the Nana Star Foundation, which is dedicated to raising funds for terminally ill children and raising awareness of the crippling problems facing children that attend under-resourced, inner-city schools. Nana Star books are distributed to hospitals and inner-city schools throughout the United States, and I’m sure they’ve brought smiles to the faces of many a child!

The Nana Star line is recommended for ages 3-7, and I completely agree with that suggestion. Although my toddler loves the Moonman, she can’t activate the light and music features without my help. The music could also be a bit loud for babies’ little ears. The Nana Star doll includes small elements that could be ingested by children under 3. MJ does enjoy listening to the stories, though I’m sure she doesn’t understand the concepts just yet. The entire Nana Star line of products can be purchased from NanaStar.com and the books can also be found on Amazon.

Nana Star giveaway

One lucky reader is going to win this entire set, including the Nana Star doll, Moonman lovey, and both books. To enter, please visit Nana Star and leave a comment on this post telling me what you like most about the product line.

Please leave a separate comment for each entry. US entries only. A valid email address or blog URL must be provided so that I can contact you if you win. This contests ends at 11:59 pm EST on February 7th, 2009. Winner will be chosen at random, and has 48 hours to claim their prize.

Thank you to Elizabeth and Elena for this review opportunity!

Reader Interactions

Comments

  5. What I love most about this product line is that the books make a child feel special which they are. They seem personal, but really are not, but makes a child feel like they are just for them… I hope I’m saying this right…I know what I mean, but maybe it’s not coming out right… or maybe you do know what I mean… Great giveaway :o)

  7. My favorite quality of the Nana Star line is the wholesomeness of the toys and books. I like to surround my kids with innocent toys, not adult-like electronic gadgets and Barbies.

  8. I like that the dolls are soft and cuddly so important to little preschoolers. Thanks so much for introducing me to this lovely line of stories and dolls.
    Rene
    itsjustmerene2003atyahoodotcom

  9. I love the concept of these, that they help children not fear the dark. And also the way that they came about, from a grandmother’s story, rather than some Marketing and PR people sitting around a boardroom brainstorming ideas.

    Kathleen’s last blog post..Wordful Wednesday: Snow Day

  14. I love the way that children can sleep with the babies! I also love the foundation and what it stands for!!

  17. I love that the stories come with beautiful dolls, the Nana Star Posable Doll looks like something a little child would really treasure.

  25. i love the overall message and i like that kids would really enjoy the light and comfort of the doll.

  27. I really, really, really like how little readers can receive an autographed photo of the real Nana Star with a personalized message and a certificate of membership. If they find the mistake in the text of the book and send a note to Nana Star correcting the mistake, then they get all of these extra special, wonderful cudoo’s or pat’s on the back, as my mom would say.

  29. It encourages compassion. Something that isn’t taught as readily. I believe in teaching kids in being self-reliant and strong, yet still having compassion for others.

  30. I love that the books are written by sisters and illustrated by their mom! What a great family venture..and who knows more about kids than moms! Great little set!

    sandalsndaisies(at)yahoo(dot)com

    Angie’s last blog post..Dear Mr. Salad

  33. I love all the awards and endorsements, i.e., Two iParenting 2008 Outstanding Product Awards. It makes me feel very comfortable buying products with amazing awards. Thanks for the awesome giveaway.

  36. The story that began these wonderful characters are what I really like about them!
    Mrs. Owens would tell her Grandson Vance as they looked at the window at night, that the Moonman would always be there for him. Talk about making the night time more pleasant. Then, after Vance moved away, she continued to make and send him cards. Now, her daughter and two granddaughters have created the Nana Star books and characters! Great giveaway contest! Many thanks, Cindi

  38. I like that the dolls/toys are not too mature for the children. (Like Barbie and Bratz) Thanks.

    gahome2mom’s last blog post..Georgia Peachy Keen – Etsy Shop

  39. I like that it is a story of a little girl looking for a lost star to bring it back home, very nice.

    Thank you!

    janetfaye (at) gmail (dot) com

    Janet F’s last blog post..Good For The Kids Giveaway

  43. I like that children will get interested in reading from these products. I love the Moonman. My grandson is just enchanted by the moon. This would be perfect for him.

  45. I love the message behind the books, that you are never alone. What a great prize package. Thanks for a great giveaway!

  46. I really thing Moonman Lovey is just so adorable!
    Nana Star feels lonely and scared of the dark until Moonman Lovey reassures her that he is watching over her-even when she can’t see him.
    I learned Moonman Lovey is a true friend. Thank you!

  50. They won Teacher’s Choice award for 2009. How cool is that? I think my grand daughter would love to have a doll to go with the book. It would just make it more fun.

  51. I love the nana star gift wrapped package.
    I Like that they are all learning toys. from being afraid of the dark to read to me dad etc

    Thank you for being part of the Bloggy giveaway. texasgirl(at)rocketmail(dot)com

  52. I love how sweet their faces are, and how they have great detail. 🙂 So cute!!

    adashofsassitude(at)gmail(dot)com

  54. I love that this line was created to bring comfort to children. And that it is approved by so many such as the Dove Foundation, Dr Toys Best Picks and the Moms Choice Award. To me they would be a great comfort to my children in the night.
    Thank you so much for offering this wonderful giveaway !

  55. I find it neat that Elizabeth Owens was the real Nana Star. I also love that they have dolls that go along with the books. I also think it’s neat that Moonman lovey glows when Little Twinkles cuddle him and plays a sleepy “luvaby” when they hug his tummy.

    Shilo Beedy’s last blog post..A Family Completed Contest

  57. i love that these books ll teach great concepts that the kids need to learn 🙂 What a great prize! Thanks for sharing.
    chantellesabino at mac dot com

  61. I love the little Moonman. We’re having a little trouble getting Gracie to bed these days, and we can’t get her to give up the bottle. I’ve been wondering if we can get her to replace it with something else. Like the Moonman, who is adorable. 🙂

    Tara @ Feels like home’s last blog post..Grace’s Kitchen – We have a kitchen. Now what?

  64. Your button is on my Friends of Home site.

    (I’d stumble you if I could, but they suspended my account for no reason.)

    Tara @ Feels like home’s last blog post..Grace’s Kitchen – We have a kitchen. Now what?

  66. Out of all the giveaways I’ve seen, this is one of the ones I’d like to win the most. This set would be so perfect for my daughter and my son. Thank you so much for the chance! Fingers crossed!!

    Casey H’s last blog post..Share Our Strength!!!

  68. I like the story behind how the company got its start. I like the moonman.

    kamlchap(at)gmail(dot)com

  69. I love the fact that the books promote traditional virtues like generosity, compassion & kindness I have 4 small grandchildren who would love to play with this at Grandmas house,thanks for the chance

  71. I love the fact that it is done by a family. stories passed down, written and illustrated within a family. LOVE that.

  72. What I like most about this product line is it is Just right for playtime, storytime, and bedtime.

    tamben7996(at)aol(dot)com

  76. This Grandma needs this for her little grandkids. I also think that with all the awards we can feel that this is a good product. Thanks.

  77. I really like that the dolls come with stories. My daughter would really like this. Thanks.

  83. I love the idea of the Little Twinkles club and that the kids can become members when they find the mistake in the book.

  92. I first learned about these products a couple of months ago and they really touched my heart. I am a Nana as well and after reading this part of their story “Elizabeth had a very special relationship with her grandson, Vance. Together they stood by the bedroom window at night gazing at the stars. Vance often asked his Nana, “Is the Moonman really out there?” Nana told him that the Moonman was always there for him.” I cried. My favorite saying to all of my grandchildren is “I love you to the Moon and back” and we say it every chance we get. I would love to share this wonderful story with them as well. I love that the products are for any child (boy or girl) and they carry the love of Nana Star within them.

    Thanks so much for the wonderful giveaway.

    dbkagrayson2002 [at] gmail [dot] com

  104. I like that there is a story to go along with each doll. That would be a lot of fun for a child to be holding their doll and reading the story about it at the same time.

  106. I like the whole idea that there is an error somewhere in the book, for the kids to find. Once they find it and they right a letter to Nana Star, they become Twinkles.

    It is a very creative idea with wonderful pictures, and even a stuffed doll to go with them.

    I love it.

  112. I love that the Nana Star Foundation is dedicated to helping make life easier for children attending under-resourced, inner-city schools and for terminally ill children. Very commendable!

    Thanks so much for this fabulous give~away! : )))

    leahita[at]gmail[dot]com

  117. I love that there are books, cds and dolls. Its a complete package that uses all elements, from reading to music, and makes it come alive with the doll and glowing star. Thanks for the giveaway. My 3 year old would love this!

  122. The Nana Star line has received many awards and wonderful reviews. I like the fact that Nana Star was created to build character in youngsters. It promotes positive values in a simple and imaginative manner. I would love this for my new grandaughter! Thank you!
    nanja[at]comcast[dot]net

    Nancy J’s last blog post..Mommies Angels: Valentines Giveaway #6

  129. How adorable is that?! My daughter would love this! I like the fact that it has won so many awards! Very nice! Thanks! 🙂

    Kimberly D.’s last blog post..

  132. I love this: When children send Nana Star a note correcting the mistake, they become special members of Nana Star’s Little Twinkles Club. Such a cute idea! Plus it would encourage kids to actually pay attention-adorable. I also like just how adorable all the characters are! thanks

    Jill W.’s last blog post..A giveaway worth $833!!! ends 2/4

  133. I love that they have received so many wonderful awards, including the Teacher’s Choice Award for the Family 2009. It becomes obvious to me that this is a worthwhile toy/educational experience if so many others agree!

  138. I love the fact that they are first off not plastic! I love fabric dolls! The numerous amounts of awards they have been awarded is always a consumer/parent plus! I also see they are based in VA, we are in Virginia, I would have never known!

    Kristinia – Loving Heart Mommy’s last blog post..Giveaways from the Heart

  142. Loved the story of the author and how this storie came about as she was showing her grandson she was always with him after he moved. semtaylor(at)yahoo(dot)com

  143. I like that along with the stories there are dolls. Their site is neat also because they also have sign language on it.

  144. I loved this web-site. The story, the structure of the site, but my favorite part is the moonman. What a comforting lovey for a child.

  145. i like the mooman lovey–it is a great concept and i know that when kids are able to read something and have a tangible, visual picture of what they’ve read everything seems more real to them.

  146. I love that kids have the opportunity to interact with the books through the dolls. I think this helps strengthen children’s imaginations and keeps them interested in reading.

  151. These products seem so soft and lovely. And I’m a fan of any kind of toy that helps a kid to relax.

  153. I absolutely love that this line is so simple and whimsical at the same time. It’s simply gorgeous. I’d rather buy something like this for my little girl than what gets pushed on her!

    Ranee’s last blog post..Helping Humanity & Spreading Love One Hot Soccer Dude At A Time

  154. I love that a portion of the of the nana star products go to the foundation for children. The moonman is so cute.

  155. The story is beautiful: Nana Star is ready to bring the lost baby star back home where he belongs, but the world has gone to bed and she feels scared and alone. With help from a new friend, she learns that she is never alone, that the Moonman is always watching over and guiding her, even when she can’t see him.

  157. I love that Nana Star and her friends encourage virtues such as compassion, kindness, and generosity, etc to children.

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