I Want to Go to the Moon

by Eric Zhang

Genres: Picture Books, Childrens

32 pages, Hardcover

Published November 25, 2025

Reviews

[Sarah · Rating 4 out of 5]

A mouse having a dream of going to the moon and accomplishing it? You can’t get any cuter than that. 🥹🌕

The writing was simple, straightforward, and easy to read, and the illustrations were so freaking cute! Parts of them reminded me of the end credits for Ratatouille, which I thoroughly enjoyed. 😂 And the story was encouraging, reminding kids (and me) that when you have a dream, you should do your best to make it a reality. I like to think of Cody Johnson’s wise words from his song ‘Til You Can’t: “If you got a dream chase it, ‘cause a dream won’t chase you back.” 💛

Thank you to Clavis and NetGalley for providing the arc in exchange for an honest review! All opinions and statements are my own.

[er · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you so much to Netgalley, the publisher and the author for giving me the opportunity to read this!

I want to go to the moon is a story about dreams, dreams that are so big that they seem impossible. But are they really? Well, this little mouse shows us that it's not always true and that even impossible dreams can become reality.

I've read quite a few children's books this year and I honestly think this one was the cutest one, I smiled ear to ear from the first page to the last. I loved the illustrations, they have a beautiful style and they very detailed. Seeing the Cheese mountain reflected in the little mouse's eyes was so cool, and it kinda made me feel like I was watching a cartoon (side note: this could actually be a great cartoon, now that I think about it).

I want to go to the moon encourages children to dream and to dream big, to always be determined and to find creative ways to reach those dreams. I highly recommend this, and I will definitely keep it in my mind for the kids in my life!

[Maggie · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an adorable little book about a mouse who wants to get to "Cheese mountain". He builds himself a little rocket and heads off. This book is easy for kids to read by themselves of with a parent. Adorable pictures, the little mouse was so cute, and his ingenuity was awesome. He went looking for things that could help him build his rocket. In all a very sweet book!

Thank you netGalley and the publisher for the ARC.

[Reading Rachel · Rating 5 out of 5]

This children's book is sure to become a classic. This book is about a mouse who loves cheese and he thinks the moon is made of cheese. The mouse makes a plan to get to the moon and it's this mouse wonderland of cheese. The illustrations are wonderful and so good for imagination. I was highly impressed by this one!

[Lydia Underhill · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley for the advanced copy
I love the illustrations. They are beautifully done and bring you right into the story (which is also adorable). The text really needs to be fixed, though. It's hard to read because the colors are not contrasting enough.

[Kira's NetGalley Book Blog · Rating 4 out of 5]

This illustrated children's book tells the charming and inspiring tale of a little mouse with a big dream: reaching the Cheese Mountain moon. The core message—that perseverance and hard work make anything possible—is wonderfully uplifting for young readers.

The Standouts
• Illustrations (A+): The artwork is the undisputed star of this book. The use of fantastic colors and masterful shading creates a truly superb visual experience. The illustrations fit the story well, and the little mouse character is absolutely adorable!
• Introduction: The first page/introduction paragraph was fantastic and immediately draws the reader into the story.
• Theme: The powerful message of never giving up is a valuable takeaway for children.

Constructive Feedback
While the visuals are top-notch, the text could use some refinement:
• Flow and Style: The overall flow of the narrative felt a bit unmatched, and the word tense used was occasionally confusing.
• Word Selection: A better selection of words and a more consistent sentence style would elevate the writing to match the quality of the illustrations.

Final Verdict: A beautiful book with an essential, heartwarming message. A visual feast, but a minor text revision could make it perfect. Highly recommended for the illustrations alone!

*ARC was provided to me via Netgalley. The review and opinions are entirely my own.

[Little Batties · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was underwhelmed by this story, which is unfortunate because the message is beautiful.

I Want to Go to the Moon is about a mouse who wants to go to the moon, and our little narrator plans to stop at nothing until they achieve their goal. We see this little mouse work hard, keeping in mind that their dream is possible if they work hard enough, which was a sweet message. However, the story felt far too short. Yes, this is a children's book and it's meant to be short, but it still felt like it was missing pieces that could have made this even better. A few more pages with a little more on our narrator working towards their goals would have added a depth this book didn't feel like it had.

The overall message is still there, and I can see the benefit of it in a classroom. It would be a great chance to have a conversation with students about their goals. You could even challenge them to make their own plan to reach their goals. It would be interesting to see what they come up with.

Thank you NetGalley and Calvia for giving me an advanced copy of your book in exchange for an honest review.

[Kelly Blanchard · Rating 5 out of 5]

I Want to Go to the Moon is a gentle, inspiring picture book that captures the pure curiosity and determination at the heart of childhood dreaming. Through simple language and a clear emotional arc, Eric Zhang conveys the universal desire to reach beyond what feels possible.

The young protagonist’s fascination with the moon is especially compelling not as a distant fantasy, but as a goal shaped by imagination, persistence, and wonder. The story succeeds in validating big dreams while grounding them in effort and belief, making it both aspirational and reassuring for young readers.

With its concise structure and uplifting message, this book works beautifully as an early introduction to themes of ambition, curiosity, and self-confidence. It invites children to see their aspirations as valid and reachable, planting the seeds of lifelong curiosity about the world—and beyond it.

[Tiffany Seward · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐ Children’s Fiction | Dreams | Adventure

Thank you to Clavis Story for this ARC in exchange for my honest review!

I Want to Go to the Moon is an inspirational children’s story about a mouse who dreams of reaching the magical Cheese Mountain, which they believe lives on the moon. Determined to make the impossible possible, the mouse comes up with a creative plan to reach their goal, refusing to give up despite the odds stacked against them.

While the dream itself may seem far-fetched, the heart of the story lies in planning, perseverance, and believing in oneself. The illustrations are beautiful, adding to the story's magic.

Overall, I Want to Go to the Moon is a sweet, fictional, and uplifting read that encourages children to dream big and reminds them that even the biggest goals can be achieved with determination and creativity.

[Joey Susan · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you so much to Clavis and Netgalley for the ebook to read and review.

Mouse struggles to acquire the cheese, it’s much too dangerous. So he sets his sights on the great big moon that’s made of cheese. He prepares and creates until one day he’s finally ready to reach for the moon.

Such an adorable story, I loved how mouse saw the biggest opportunity in life and did everything possible before reaching it. It was honestly the cutest story, seeing the moon as one big cheese wheel and deciding he was going to go and get it.

The illustrations were fabulous like wow so much to look at and so wonderful, I loved seeing mouse creating the rocket, flying up and then seeing a whole colony of mice already having fun on the cheese moon. Honestly just such precious illustrations that I loved looking at.

[Marissa · Rating 3 out of 5]

"I Want to Go to the Moon" is a story about how if you put your mind to it, you can do it. The illustrations in this book were wonderful. The colors were bright and eye catching and the details of the illustrations were amazing. While the premise of the story was great, it fell a little flat for me because of the writing style. For a kids book about an astronaut mouse, I expected it to be more whimsical and have more fun language. However, it felt very matter of fact and to the point. It has the potential to be a very inspiring book with its beautiful illustrations and encouraging storyline.

Thank you NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book
The opinions and statements of this book are my own.

[Kristina P (ARC Reviewer) · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a cute book about a mouse who wants to go to the moon, because he loves cheese and what does the moon look like? Cheese! The illustrations are on point and I love this book and highly recommend it.

I received a complimentary digital ARC [Advanced Readers Copy] of this book via NetGalley. Thank you to the Publisher and the Author for the opportunity to read and review this title prior to publication. As always, the opinions expressed in this review are my own.

PUBLISH DATE: Nov 25, 2025
BOOK TITLE: I Want To Go To The Moon
AUTHOR: Eric Zhang
ILLUSTRATOR: Eric Zhang
PUBLISHER: Clavis
FORMAT: ebook
PAGES: 32

[Lauren Larry · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to netgalley for the ARC for the honest review.


This book was simply adorable. Well written and the illustrations were gorgeous. Very practical. It’s something I would read to my elementary students at the beginning of the year. It’s got just enough illustrations for the young reader to talk about the story with someone helping them read. The details in the illustrations provide space for the reader to observe and ask questions and think about the answers.

To improve this book, I would love to see the author ask a few comprehension questions at the end. (That’s the book club lover and teacher in me)

[Beth · Rating 5 out of 5]

I Want to Go to the Moon is a charming and inspiring children’s story about a little mouse whose greatest wish is to reach the moon to collect cheese. The mouse uses creativity, persistence, and imagination to build a way to make his dream come true. The pictures are large and perfect for little ones. I read this with my nephews and it is all thumbs up! The story celebrates determination, problem-solving, and the belief that dreams are possible, even when they seem far-fetched.

Thank you NetGalley and the publishing house of Clavis for sending this DRC book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.

[Smut Goblin · Rating 3 out of 5]

I Want to Go to the Moon by Eric Zhang delivers a sweet, aspirational message about following your dreams—no matter how big or unlikely they seem.

The core theme is clear and uplifting, encouraging kids to believe in themselves and aim high. The illustrations are the standout: beautifully painted, atmospheric, and perfect for a calm bedtime read.

The story itself felt a bit slow for me, and some kids may find the narrative less engaging than the visuals. Still, it’s a gentle, thoughtful picture book best suited for young dreamers ages 5+ who enjoy quiet stories with big ideas.

Thank you to Clavis for the eARC!

[Panda Incognito · Rating 3 out of 5]

This picture book has an adorable cover, and it tells a cute story about a mouse who wants to travel to the moon. The mouse perseveres through multiple challenges, and eventually achieves his dream. I like the concept, but I found the execution a bit underwhelming. The full-page and panel illustrations are very appealing, but the story has many abrupt transitions, and I wanted more from the enticing ending! This would have been better with a little more detail.

People who like this book's premise should also check out the Mouse Adventures series by Torben Kuhlmann.

I received a temporary digital copy from NetGalley, and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.

[The Delulu Book · Rating 5 out of 5]

OMG
I wanted to read something short and sweet, you know to warm up for upcoming year, and Oh MY GODS this is the most beautiful book I've seen recently.
The art is too good, to pretty to detailed, is honestly so good I want this book for myself, no children involved.
10/10
I recommend, perfect for children? yes Perfect for picture book lovers? yes.
Even adults who just want to enjoy a short comic about dreams and hardwork.
( Really I cannot even begin to describe how astonishingly beautiful is this book )
Thank you so much Eric Zhang and NetGalley for blessing my eyes with this.

[Kami Mauldin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, what a beautiful picture book. And so adventurous! We meet a little mouse who makes a plan to accomplish an impossible dream. Both my 4 and 10yo liked it and went back through the pictures again when the story had been read to them. This is one I would buy as a gift for friends. I read the ebook through NetGalley, but I will probably buy a hard copy because I’m sure it would be even better as a physical copy.

Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the ARC.

[S.A. Krishnan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Four Point Five Stars
Mice have been talking with each other about the cheese mountains of the moon. But finally after going another day without cheese, a mouse decides to do something about it.
Beautiful story that no dream is too big, even if you’re very small. It has beautiful illustrations and the book is recommended for any young reader.
Thank you for the eARC Netgalley.
Review also found at:
https://ok-readingcorner.blogspot.com...

[Stephanie White · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a cute story teaching children perseverance, following your dreams, and never giving up on your dreams.

The little mouse wants cheese, and when he goes to the restaurants, the waiters get angry so after being ejected he sees a poster of the moon and thinks it is the mythical ball of cheese.

The mouse goes on and on and on - and never gives up on his dream.

I have a son that is mentally four years old, and he loved this story and he loved the illustrations!

[Joanna HL · Rating 4 out of 5]

I Want to Go to the Moon is a sweet, cosy story about a little mouse determined to reach the moon. The text is super simple and sparing, leaving plenty of space for children to use their own imagination, and the dreamy illustrations do most of the storytelling. It’s a lovely book about dreaming big and trying your best, perfect for inspiring little people while feeling calm, warm, and comforting from start to finish. Perfect for little people!

[Cassie Webb · Rating 4 out of 5]

Super cute. The illustrations are what sold me—bright, playful, and full of little details. I liked the silly cheese = moon bit, and the message about reaching your dreams feels warm without trying too hard. It’s a quick read that leaves you smiling.

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Lilian · Rating 4 out of 5]

Unlike most children’s books it starts off a bit darker (literally) and as the story ends the colour scheme changes to be brighter and more positive. It does reflect the journey which the mouse takes to achieve his dreams.

The words are simple enough for a child to have a glimpse into the importance of preparation towards achieving a goal. Overall, an inspiring read for our young ones.

[Kara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you Netgalley for an advanced copy!

A deliciously sweet story of a mouse with an impossible dream to travel to the moon. And, against all odds, and with a LOT of hard work, the mouse shows sometimes the impossible IS possible!

[Hope Griffin Diaz · Rating 5 out of 5]

This incredibly delightful read is perfect for children with bold imaginations who are taken in by graphic drawings and can fill in the wonder. The drawing are very good and the expressions on the little Mouse's face are priceless. A well crafted book to be read to and by children.

[Kristina · Rating 4 out of 5]

A cute book about following your dreams. I don't even like cheese but this cute little mouse had me hoping the moon really was made of cheese. Lovely illustrations!

[Nicole · Rating 4 out of 5]

Received this arc via Net galley.

Perfect story for the little ones. I read this to my 2 year old and she adored the fact the mouse loved cheese. The illustrations were beautiful too!

[Ashleigh Miller · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a cute story and I didn't want it to end. The artwork was also really good and really brought this to life and right after finishing I just wanted to read it again!

[Sara 👻 · Rating 4 out of 5]

So cute, I adore the art style of the pictures and the message of the book. That ending was perfect <3

[CK · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sweet inspirational book with a surprise ending! My little one picked it out based on the adorable cover. Love the lesson to imagine, try, and dream!

Thanks to NetGalley and Clavis for the ARC.