Lulu the Moon Catcher is an endearing picture book for young readers by author Tyler Zen. Lulu loves everything outside. When she’s not in school or asleep in her bed, she’s out playing in the mud, catching little critters, and so much more. The only thing is, Lulu does all of this by herself. She doesn’t have any friends. The girls make fun of her and would rather play with dolls than a muddy little girl. The boys bully her, and her one-time friend, Milo, has now joined them. They started teasing him about playing with a girl. The only time everyone comes together is when Lulu’s grandfather sits on his porch and tells stories – he’s a great storyteller. His story about the moon inspires Lulu to try to catch it like she’s caught so many other things out in the natural world, and here her adventure begins.

Tyler Zen’s picture book story, Lulu the Moon Catcher, is a charming, sweet story about a little girl and her passion for just about everything and anything. As Lulu’s story unravels, the reader is touched by this little girl’s love for all creation, and also saddened by the teasing, tormenting, and bullying that ostracizes her. It drives her to try anything and everything to stay home from the school where everyone gangs up on her. Her strength of character shines through as Lulu, though saddened by the meanness of others, remains true to herself and what she loves best. She has a vivid imagination and a determination to accomplish whatever she sets out to do: including catching the moon. And, through her efforts, she learns (as do those who bullied her) the value of real friendship and courage. Beautifully illustrated, the story is told in simple language so young readers can follow along. A couple of sing-along songs at the end of the story inspire young readers further to be true to themselves.

Lulu The Moon Catcher by Tyler Zen is an illustrated children's book for all ages but most especially primary school kids. Lulu is an outdoor person and spends her days frolicking in nature while discovering exciting new things every day. At the end of each day, she’s covered in mud because of all the fun that she has all day long. The other kids find Lulu’s antics a little strange and won't play with her. The boys make fun of her and even stole the only friend she ever had. On the other hand, she doesn’t quite fit in with the girls either as their idea of fun is vastly different. However, will she make any friends?

I adored this story. It was just so sweet and the beautiful illustrations by Romont Willy were so vibrant that they brought the story to colorful life. The artwork and the story go so well together you can imagine the emotions of the characters and get immersed in the beautiful backgrounds and wonderfully drawn characters. Lulu The Moon Catcher teaches children to stand up for themselves and to invest in the right kind of friends. Lulu is the classic tomboy and quite unapologetic about it. She’s the perfect example of a good type of different. Tyler Zen is a great storyteller who blends a magical tale with real-life lessons that will help children everywhere, both different and ordinary, be better people. My children found this book very entertaining and were engaged throughout. The book also comes with two great songs that you can sing along to on the author's website.