Talk Me a Story About Moon Rabbit
Original art and illustration by Michelle Myers
What if the stories your mother told you could save the world?
Shelly has always felt different. Too Korean. Not Korean enough. Afraid of the dark. But when her Momma shares “talk stories” about Moon Rabbit—a magical creature from Korean folklore—Shelly feels safe. Then one night, something surprising happens: Moon Rabbit slides down a moonbeam into her room and steals her family’s rice!
Armed with her Moon pendant, her beloved plushie Lammie, and a whole lot of courage, Shelly follows him into a breathtaking world on the Moon where her nightmares come to life.
Can Shelly be brave enough to overcome her fears, uncover the truth about Moon Rabbit’s actions, and use her mother’s stories to face the Moon Gobbler?
“This work holds deep personal significance for me as a biracial Korean American, intertwining my family history, cultural heritage, and creative expression. Most of all, this work serves as a tribute to my late parents and the rich tapestry of experiences they imparted to me.
My mother was a survivor of the Korean War, and her stories of hardship and resilience resonate meaningfully within the narrative. Her experiences during the war, especially the loss of her father, profoundly influenced her and, in turn, shaped my understanding of courage and the enduring impact of trauma across generations. Through storytelling, I honor her memory as well as my multicultural lineage, weaving together elements of Korean folktales and American culture.
Therefore, in writing this story, I aim to bridge the gap between cultures, celebrating the blending of my Korean and American identities while acknowledging the intergenerational legacy of war and displacement. TALK ME A STORY ABOUT MOON RABBIT becomes a vessel for exploring themes of cultural identity, family bonds, and the power of storytelling to heal and connect communities. This project is not only a creative endeavor but also a deeply personal journey of remembrance, understanding, and cultural preservation.”