The Book of Moon

I laughed until I cried at Moon's irreverent views; I cried until I laughed at Moon's irreligious circumstances. What a wonderful story of the love of family through heartache. The never-ending quest to fill God-shaped holes in the characters' souls, even while tempted to blame God for their woes, should resonate with all readers.

Loved the point of view of Moon as he struggles to figure things out. The simplicity of Moon’s thought process, as expressed by the writer’s style, has all the characteristics and sophistication of a really good story that draws you in and leads you through a great read.

Loving family relationships are the basis and the beauty of this book. The struggles to achieve them are real and necessary. The process grows as the roles define themselves. Using a little known sport as vehicle provides an extra impetus.

I just finished reading an Advanced Review Copy of The Book of Moon. What a great novel! From when we first meet Moon until the last page, our adolescent protagonist is a person who’s totally enjoyable to spend time with. The character development is wonderful and it’s just as satisfying to spend time with the supporting cast of Moon’s (broken) family, L.A. skateboarders, bar flies, Internet daters, religious true believers, high school social justice activists and more. The novel’s language is an American dialect spoken by 21st century teenagers, not so foreign to be incomprehensible, but foreign enough to be intriguing.

The Book of Moon by George Crowder is a coming of age story told in first person by Moon Landing. His life’s journey here can be seen as a spiritual quest as he strives to prepare himself for adulthood after the painful dissolution of his parents’ marriage. We’re taken along for every step of the journey with Crowder’s compassionate insight, wit and intelligence. I heartily recommend the book to all.

The Book of Moon is an interesting story that takes you back to early adolescence and the uncertainty and discovery that go along with it.

Like another favorite book of mine, Ender's Game, the author gives what I consider proper credit to the intelligence and insightfulness of the young adult mind while maintaining the unique perspective of that age.

My parents didn't divorce and I grew up in a fairly religious house hold, so I personally didn't relate as strongly to Moon as some of my friends who grew up with two homes, but I was always deeply interested in his decisions and perspective.

I quite enjoyed this book as an adult in my 30s, and I can see this book being especially helpful for young teens who are trying to find their place in the world, particularly after a major event that is outside of their control.

Even when I wasn't reading the book, I found myself thinking back to it and looking forward to the next time I picked it up.

-- I received an advance copy of the book --

I truly enjoyed this book. It kept me spellbound without being overly dramatic. The characters and events were believable, and I found myself sympathizing with them and quietly rooting for their success. I highly recommend this book and hope strongly that there are more to follow.

By Kiffen Madden-Lunsford - a review

I so enjoyed Moon Landing’s painfully hilarious journey through an unrelenting series of personal conundrums. With a set of variables like divorce, girls, Buddhist sand painting, and mom’s online dating, Moon really steps up his problem solving skills! Truly a great paced, perceptive story, that captures the voice of a sharp young teenager coming of age in a contemporary big city.

Book of Moon is a poignant coming-of-age story that grabs you by the heartstrings and doesn't let go, even long after you've finished the last chapter. Through a compelling and often humorous first person narrative, author George Crowder invites you into the precarious world of teen Moon Landing and his family. Through Moon, we experience the twists and turns of a modern family unraveling at the seams. Troubled by things he cannot understand or control, Moon searches for answers and stability in some of the most likely places, but ends up finding support from an unlikely array of characters who help him understand that life is about impermanence and acceptance and, ultimately, forgiveness. Funny, touching and heartfelt, this book is for anyone struggling to understand and accept the often heartbreaking impermanence of life.
Book of Moon is a gem that you'll want to share with family and friends. I feel very fortunate to have seen an advance copy of this book.

I laughed out loud! What a fun, intelligent book. I can't imagine anyone with a sense of humor not liking this book. My only complaint is that it's not in audible. My son and husband would both like to be able to listen to it when driving. You're the man George Crowder. Keep them coming!

I am always delighted to find a book that I don't want to end, and The Book of Moon was certainly one such novel. The plot was entertaining, intelligent, and well paced, and the characters were all likable, even when behaving badly. The protagonist, the brilliant young Moon Landing, charmed me from page 1.The book had its share of surprises and laugh out loud moments as well as some truly poignant ones. I recommend it highly and hope that George Crowder will have another book published SOON.

The Book of Moon is not my typical type of book to read. The book was laugh out loud funny at times and followed a central theme which was wrapped up at the end.

The writing style kept me intrigued. I wanted to find out where Moon Landing would ultimately end up. I would recommend this book of many chapters.

I don't know why I picked this book, something about it pulled me. I have been reading a bunch of detective stories, was looking for a change and ended up with this book. What a pleasant surprise. I found my self laughing out loud frequently and reading portions to my wife. She was amused as well. I could relate to a number of situations in the story and enjoyed the author's take on them. I am now going to search for other books by Crowder...

Perfect in every way. I have absolutely no criticism, congrats George and I hope this book gets the acclaim it deserves. Not only is it well written with such beautiful turns of phrases that I frequently wanted to re read a sentence but it was unputdownable and life affirming. I read a lot, 3/4 books a week, and in the last five years only three books have made my 'one of the best' list and this is the fourth. I do not want to say anything about the story as I would not want to spoil this perfect reading experience for anyone, all I can say is "thank you George".

This book reminded of Wally Lamb. An enchanting story of a young man finding his place in the world. A story filled with love, coincidence, laughter and pain. I have a feeling this character will stay with me for a while. I highly recommend this book to everyone.

George,
I just finished reading The Book of Moon and I must say that I loved it. It was funny, sensitive and insightful with a writing style that is tight and kept me turning pages. Thanks for taking the time and effort to write it - reading it was a joy

It is not often that I am surprised by a book, but this one caught me unaware! From the beginning, the writing was so smart, humorous and yet so real that I found myself smiling and laughing many times. Growing up in Southern California and once an active member of the Buddhist sect, it was a walk down memory lane! Although the "voice" of the character Moon is of a teenager, I found it most relatable to my life. His innocence and interpretations of people and family felt at home with me. Moon would be someone I would like to get to know better. Perhaps we will be lucky enough that the author will write a sequel of the further astute observations and experiences of Mr. Landing.
I was fortunate enough to obtain an Advanced Review Copy of the book. I highly recommend it to anyone, any age. (even Oprah!)

Randy F.

I feel in love with the main character's of this book right from the start. And it just kept getting better and better. For those of you that come from a divorce or are a child of divorced parents, you'll finish this with a better understanding of what children go through when their worlds are separated. I finished in tears and will miss the people I came to know and love in the pages of this book. Well done Mr. Crowder! I look forward to any book you write!

Moon is wise beyond his years and has a voice and a story that keep you wanting more. I could not put this book down. It's sweet, sarcastic and hilariously funny. It's also a great story of growing up after your parents split up.

Meet Moon Landing and his family and you will never forget them. A great first book that will pull you in and give you a heartwarming experience. I have read a lot of great books and I am careful about what author I read. I think it was one of my guardian angels that guided me to Book of Moon. I have 12 grandsons and I will be making certain they read this book. Parents, kids, and grandparents you will be missing out if you don't read about Moon and his family's heartwarming and special story! You might learn a little bit about forgiveness too.

I'm not one to buy lots of books, but this one was recommended to me by a close friend so I bought it. I stopped buying books because I never get around to reading them. After my friend made me eat it (literally), I started to read it. The 'Book Of Moon' had me deeply involved! Once I got around to reading it I finished it in a couple of days which is pretty unusual for me. The story was touching and grasped my interest at a deep level. I feel like it was healing for me on some level. Like it took me on a journey within my own experience of life, thought and emotion. Its been a few weeks since I read it and I still find myself going through my own process as I have been inspired to reflect. My desire to read books has also increased. Looking forward to more from this author.

The Book of Moon was a great read. Though it was funny and irreverent at times, it dealt with weighty issues like divorce, religion and relationships. Moon is a kid you'd love to hang out with, he's funny, smart, kind and deep. I recommend this book to everyone.

Life isn’t easy for a boy named Moon Landing, and it gets even harder when his parents split. Mom runs to the plastic surgeon and dad retreats to his sports bar, leaving Moon and his brother to pick up the pieces. When young men come knocking in response to mom’s online dating profile, it’s a plague worthy of the Old Testament—and more trials are soon to come. Moon wrestles with the age-old questions: why do we suffer? and how do you talk to girls?

"The Book of Moon" is funny and poignant. It's a "guy book" with brains and heart that will appeal to a wide audience, from teens on up. Don't miss it!

The description on the store doesn't do this book justice. George Crowder makes his characters come alive with humor, wisdom and mischief. The Book of Moon makes you laugh and feeds you tidbits to chew on - a great combination. It is one that I will definitely read again.

This book is well worth your time, with great dialogue, and thought-provoking asides about life. I really enjoyed it. For me, the characters' painful growing up is not mere schadenfreude, but struck deep chords and evoked many memories of my own life.

What a great, witty, engaging book! Definitely outside my usual genre of fiction but I'm so glad I read it. Being a woman and approaching middle age (with 3 kids), books about teenage boys are not what I tend to read, but this story is so entertaining I feel richer for having read it.

A great story about adolescence. Once I started reading this book, I couldn't put it down. I greatly enjoyed the vivid and realistic characters, especially Moon. Moon Landing is teenage boy trying to make sense of his life, just like we all did at that age. I could relate to a lot of his questions and uncertainties. Great from beginning to end.I hope there is a Book of Moon 2.

One of the best coming of age stories I've ever read. Written with wit, compassion and a genuine gift for story telling, the author created an authentic cast of family and friends to surround the charming, sensitive, inquisitive, intelligent and loveable Moon Landing. This book captured my interest immediately and spoke to my heart, mind and soul in the most meaningful ways. A highly recommended delightful read!

It is hard to describe this book. The narrator is a young teen-aged whose family is in turmoil. He compares his live to the book of Job. The writing is clever and the characters really do seem to "come to life." I will read this again -- that's the test of a "good book" for me.

I was drawn in at the very beginning. The characters are funny and quirky. Some parts dragged a bit and the ending was a bit flat. Overall it was an okay read. You can tell this was the writer's first book.

Such a lovely coming of age story with a cast of quirky characters! I enjoyed this book immensely. It made me smile and feel nostalgic for my middle school students. Growing up can be painful but also joyful.

I really enjoy simple reading. This book makes you ask your own questions but does not cram ideas down your throat. Would also be great for teens and young adults. I am a middle aged woman and still understood many of the skateboarding terms. It was different looking at divorce from a teens point of view too.

I found this a quirky, fun and entertaining read. A ride through the life of a fifteen year old, a bit dark, funny, and entertaining. Figuring out your parents are real people. Give it a chance, I think you'll be glad you did.

I truly enjoyed this coming-of-age book! It is quirky and richly diverse; it is heartwarming yet grounded in the realities of a high school kid. The various characters that surround Moon Landing are so well-developed (the mom is HILARIOUS). And I loved getting lost in some of the beautiful details of everyday life encapsulated by the author, whether it was the art of bartending or skateboarding. Throughout the book, I found myself feeling closer to Moon, curious about his world, and empathetic to the issues he faced.

The protagonist puzzles over religion and his crumbling family while trying to find meaning in the story of Job. (Yes, Judeo-Christian Job). His struggle toward maturity parallels his mother's regression as she wallows in her need for attention and hedonistic pleasure. This is a witty, funny yet thoughtful book about growth and forgiveness. I enjoyed it immensely.

I don't usually write reviews, but I am compelled to do so after reading this book. I loved the sarcasm, wit, humor, and honesty. Loved the characters and how they were developed. Bravo on a great first novel! I look forward to more from this author.

This book had me from the start. I picked it for my book club. Moon is probably one of my favorite characters I've read in awhile. He raises so many questions about faith, humanity and the search for a purpose, I hung on every word. I can't wait to discuss the book.

A very entertaining and fun book. Lighthearted with a much deeper message than appears at face value. I was interested, entertained and even found myself laughing out loud. I would definintely recommend this read! Great job George! I'm glad that you found your hand at writing and look forward to more of your stories!

George Crowder is a great story teller that takes the reader down a humorous and philosophical road and into the lives of his characters. I was sad to leave them when I finished the book. Looking foward to reading more of his writing.

I absolutely loved Book of Moon. It charts the miseries and ecstasies of teenage angst
told through the eyes of Moon Landing, a 15 yr. old boy living in a disfunctioning and
funny family. I suspect the author has had plenty of contact with kids and seems to
understand the adolescent mind. The unique and lovable characters were intriguing
and complex, and all have their own struggles. This book is not just for teens, every
parent ought to read it. There’s something for everyone in this delightful book. It’s an
easy read and I had a hard time putting it down until I finished. Kudos to George Crowder!

I loved this book. A couple of years ago I decided to read the Bible, cover to cover. The Book of Job amazed me. I don't get it. God was Wrong. Job loved God and did everything right. God not only let the Devil torture job, but encouraged it. I would have liked a stronger story. All things considered, I recommend this book and will look for more writings from George Crowder.

I love stories about young people that actually question life and the meaning of it all. Add in family dysfunction which is complete reality and you have a real life story. This was wonderfully written, no corny dialogue that leaves you cringing, just real words that flow effortlessly. I wish more stories like this would be made into movies instead of the crap that's constantly churned out in theaters!

I enjoyed this book immensely. Witty and funny, extremely relatable. The characters' struggles and revelations touched me and I am recommending this book to those who can appreciate it. Can't wait to read more from this author!

First person story of a young man surrounded by interesting family, and a unique perspective about life. Through his eyes, we could all see a bit of ourselves, or family, in a most unique way. Good story, well written.

Old souls unite!!! Just finished "The Book of Moon" with a smile on my face. Moon is an "old soul" who is such an incredible character for his age and his thoughts and his quiet quest at understanding life. Well written, witty, excellent in every way... I highly recommend the "Book of Moon" as an unexpected treat to yourself - especially if you understand what it means to be an "old soul." Enjoy!

As a fifth-grade teacher, The Book of the Moon is just what I was looking for. It is witty, funny and engaging. It doesn't talk down to them. And it deals with real issues that many may not yet have found the vocabulary to express. This is the next generation's Judy Bloom. The book reaches for their hearts and doesn't let it go. My students are begging for more from George Crowder!!

This book had me laughing out loud within the first few pages. I loved Moon and all his friends and family. I don't usually write reviews, but I want to let everyone know how wonderful this story is. As soon as I finished, I looked for anything else published by George Crowder. Unfortunately, he doesn't have any other books out at this time. Fortunately, I was able to start rereading The Book of Moon right away. Try this book -- i guarantee you won't regret it.

From the awkwardness of shared custody to the adrenaline rush of a skateboard competition, this book deftly captures what it's like to be a teenager trying to figure out the world, helped by a wry sense of humor. I found myself rooting for Moon and anxious about him -- because obviously some days worrying about whether God exists is secondary to whether there is life after middle school!

Identified with Moon a great deal as I am always seeking new churches and more questions , I found myself so emersed in this book and its main character that I felt I knew him. Now it takes some brilliance on the author to reel in the reader, Bravo George Crowder, I am your new fan and can't wait till your next book

I downloaded this book for my 17 year old son because I thought he would relate to the character, considering some things going on in his life. When he didn't read it, I decided to read it myself. All I can say is that while this book is ostensibly about a teenaged boy, it is so much more than that. I enjoyed it - and related to - the characters immensely.

I had the opportunity to preview this book. What a delight to read about a quirky California young man. Also, enjoyed learning about what goes on in a young man's thoughts as he heads into life. Easy read. Found myself feeling for Moon and then laughing out loud. Looking forward to George Crowder will write next.

Fall in love with Moon Landing in the Book of Moon. I couldn't put this book down. It is thought provoking, hilarious, raw and emotional. I really loved following Moon on his coming of age journey. I highly recommend this book for teenagers and adults. I hope there is a sequel so that I can delve more into the life of Moon and his family. It's one of those books you don't want to end. Great read!

The Book of Moon is a truly enjoyable read, good for both adults and teens. An authentic dive into adolescence that is funny, poignant and intriguing. I didn't want to put it down so I didn't! I will be recommending this to both kids and parents - there are many gems to be mined for great discussions.

I had no expectations of this book and was rewarded with a witty expressive unexpectedly spiritual adventure. Moon is philosopher, teacher, brother, talent manager and above all perpetual observer. Completely enjoyed this book, more Moon please!

Reading this intimate portrait of a precocious kid, Moon, growing up in Los Angeles in the 90s is a very satisfying experience. We get to read humorous vignettes of adolescent life, full of precious, minute details, with vividly drawn supporting characters, all set in a comfortable, familiar American landscape. And, speaking through Moon, Crowder treats us to a serious and thought provoking discussion of the meaning we might find in our lives. Thank you for writing this book, George Crowder!

Creative, charming, and always interesting, Book of Moon touches on themes that are both timely and timeless. Crowder places memorable characters - particularly Moon, who is bright and relatable - in unusual situations. The effect is a memorable, distinctly Californian journey through adolescence. Highly recommended.
- I received an advance copy of this book -

What an excellent book! I didn't think I could invest emotionally with the story of a pre-teen boy but the character of Moon is insightful and his story is engaging. I was hooked from the first chapter. This is a good read!

Was home sick in bed and needed something to entertain me. I enjoyed this book thoroughly. The characters are rounded out beautifully. The story is wonderfully written. I was entertained and moved and what more could you ask for?

A sincere, honest writing style makes The Book of Moon a wonderful read. The characters are full of personalities and they come alive each time I picked up the book. The life of adolescence isn't easy for the main character Moon, but we all can relate to that level of uncertainty as we grown into adulthood. Wonderful!

A great story growing up in California. Young Moon struggles capture the 70's generation - struggling with first relationships, consuming a sampling of religion and community, coming to terms with divorce and liberated parents. Crowder authors his first book like a son of the Beat generation, but from Los Angeles, and reminds me a first person voice of Tom Wolfe.
- I read an advanced copy of the books -

I thought this book was a delightful read. Everything was very real and believable. The characters all seemed very real and the dialog was right on. I look forward to reading more from Mr. Crowder. Great job!

Author Crowder is a gifted writer with a keen sense of time and place, and a real ear for dialogue. With this witty ride, nothing is completely predictable; just when you think you know where the story is headed, it takes a clever change of direction. It's a fast, enjoyable read.

Once started I couldn't put it down. Moon and Moss are true characters,This a well written and funny book.Laughed often enough and loud enough to cause my wife to ask me to quiet down.If you are a Hiaasen fan you will love "The Book of Moon.

" The Book of Moon" is a thoroughly enjoyable journey through the trials and tribulations of adolescence. Being both hilarious and
heart warming, George Crowder takes us on a journey we can all relate to as we recall our own experiences of self discovery in trying to
understand the people and institutions around us.

I received an advance copy of this book.
Paul Akullian

This is a charming story of adolescence and the struggle to deal with both peers and the "adults" who seem to run things. I was particularly impressed by the ending- a sign of hope and redemption for us all. As an aside, also extensive and detailed descriptions of the art/science of both skateboarding and golf, for the afficianados out there! Easily a 5-star read!

Loved this heartwarming story. I don't think I have ever laughed out loud so many times while reading a book. My husband asked what was I reading! And yet I had tears in my eyes when I left the book. An endearing story of a young boy coming of age.

What a great book. Thoroughly enjoyed reading this wonderful story, I related to this book on so many levels that my head is spinning. And thank you for writing one of THE best endings ever. This book is a tremendous accomplishment.

This book was an Awesome read. It kept my interests peaked throughout the story and I yearned for more. I like the 'back and forth' banter at the dinner table. Reminded me of times in my own life with my family. I definitely Suggest this book.

Beautifully written, moving, great humor and thoughtful. The book should resonate with all folks who have experienced divorce and dysfunctional homes growing up. Sometimes it even helps everyone grow. I am recommending it to my book group.

A very enjoyable read. The whole concept of "family" was totally alien to me, sooo it definitely broadened my interpretations. The humor was subtle and refreshing. Not for everyone but worth your time.

The Book of Moon is a YA novel? I hadn't realized until I saw the other reviews.
It is a young man's serpentine journey through high school, divorced parents, and girls.
I look forward to more from this author.
And I will recommend this one to my friends, as well as my daughter.

I enjoyed reading this middle school boy's coming of age story. The characters were very colorful and believable. The author researched aspects that he wasn't familiar with. I loved the short chapters. It is a book that once you start reading it, you can't put it down.

The author's character development was very well done. I came to care about the fate of the main protagonist and his older brother. I got lost somewhat in the names of the different skateboard "moves" - and there were a lot of them. I found myself wishing the author had done more describing and less naming of what the boy was doing on his board.

This book had me laughing from the first chapter, Crowder's style of writing is sharp, clever and captivating. I've been thoroughly entertained and haven't even finished! Can't wait to see how the ending unfolds...

Very well written and something I think my grandson would enjoy. He is smart and not very athletically inclined and I think it would show him that you don't have to be both. And to embrace who he is, as we all should.

After 15 pages and a bit of skimming, I threw the book down.
The writing is child-like, predictable and full of cheesy knee-slapping humor.

My first thought was I'd ordered a young adult book. Even still, the writing is cringe inducing. The characters are dull except for the two teens who, of course,are smarter than the parents.
I'm amazed this book was ever published.
ZERO STARS