An essential, highly relatable collection of short fiction and poems around the topic of menstruation, written exclusively by authors who are Black, Indigenous, and/or people of color.

For Angela, it came on the basketball court—while playing on the boys’ team. For Penny, it came on a lakeside field trip, inspiring some cringeworthy moments of humor. And to Layla’s disappointment, it came at the start of her first fasting Ramadan, mandating that she take a “holiday.” Whether their period’s coming spurs silence or celebration, whether they are well prepared for it or totally in the dark, the young people in these sixteen stories find that getting a period brings not only changes to their bodies, but also joy, sorrow, and self-discovery. Featuring BIPOC contributors who are some of today’s most talented authors in middle-grade fiction, Calling the Moon offers coming-of-age stories and poetry as varied as the phases of the moon, from funny to heartbreaking to powerful, all of them reassuring readers that they are not alone in their period journey.

With contributions by:
Hilda Eunice Burgos * Veeda Bybee * Susan Muaddi Darraj * Saadia Faruqi * Nikki Grimes * Leah Henderson * Mason J. * Erin Entrada Kelly * Guadalupe Garcia McCall * Elise McMullen-Ciotti * Yamile Saied Méndez * Emma Otheguy * Aida Salazar * Christina Soontornvat * Padma Venkatraman * Ibi Zoboi

PRAISE FOR CALLING THE MOON

“Honest and tender. . . a love letter to all who menstruate, one that’s both welcoming and inclusive—particularly to those experiencing their first period.” Publishers Weekly Starred Review

“A powerful, vibrant, and empowering celebration of an important milestone.” Kirkus Starred Review

“An essential, compelling, and unique addition addressing a universal topic from a wide range of perspectives.” Booklist Starred Review

“Much-needed.” School Library Connection Starred Review

Publisher: Candlewick
ISBN: 9781536216349
Publication: 3/28/2023
Illustrator: Fahmida Azim
Formats: hardcover; e-book