#United States #USPS #Goodnight Moon #North Kansas City #Clement Hurd

U.S. Postal Service Launches Goodnight Moon Stamps

On May 2, 2025, the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) unveiled a new series of stamps inspired by the beloved children's book "Goodnight Moon." This first-day-of-issue event took place at The Rabbit hOle, a museum dedicated to celebrating a rich century of American children's literature, where the iconic Great Green Room from the book is beautifully recreated.

Lisa Bobb-Semple, director of stamp services at USPS, remarked during the event, "These nostalgic stamps not only celebrate the timeless charm of 'Goodnight Moon' but also highlight the enduring relevance of both stamps and children's literature in a digital age." The enthusiastic public response to the stamps reflects a widespread appreciation for the joy and memories associated with them, bridging generations through the allure of nostalgia.

Initially published in 1947 by Margaret Wise Brown, with enchanting artwork by Clement Hurd, "Goodnight Moon" has become a staple of bedtime stories throughout the world. It captures the calmness of saying goodnight to familiar sights in the Great Green Room: a telephone, a red balloon, and a playful little mouse, among others. The book, which has sold over 48 million copies, showcases a sense of comfort and security, aiding young readers in transitioning to sleep as they bid farewell to the day.

Pete Cowdin, co-director of The Rabbit hOle, expressed his joy about the stamp launch in relation to the museum's exhibit. He stated, "Walking into the exhibit is like walking into the book itself, a time machine that sets free a flood of memories and reconnects adults with their families and childhood." This underscores the emotional resonance that the book holds for readers across varied demographics, portraying 'Goodnight Moon' not just as a classic but as a cultural icon that fosters connections and shared experiences among families.

In attendance at the unveiling was Thacher Hurd, creator of children's books and the son of the illustrator. He shared fond words about his father's contribution to the iconic title and its legacy. "I’m sure Margaret and Clem would have loved the beautifully designed stamps created by Derry Noyes and USPS. It's a wonderful occasion to unveil the new stamps in the delightful Great Green Room atmosphere," he expressed.

The book, often credited with transforming children's literature, encourages a bedtime routine around familiar objects, affirming its importance in early childhood education. Each simple yet rhythmic line constructs a space of tranquility, allowing children to visualize themselves in the story. "Goodnight clocks, and goodnight socks; goodnight little house, and goodnight mouse"—these familiar phrases work harmoniously to soothe young listeners, preparing them for sleep.

The delightful illustrations by Hurd enhance the book's appeal, alternating vibrant colorful images with detailed black-and-white sketches that enthrall generations of readers. The welcoming Great Green Room, gradually dimming over the course of the story, embodies the slow descent into sleep that many children experience each night.

Although the book faced initial shortcomings with a mere print of 6,000 copies, its popularity surged in the 1950s largely due to numerous parental recommendations, leading it to become a cultural mainstay. Recognizing its significance, the New York Public Library included "Goodnight Moon" in its esteemed list of Books of the Century in 1996, solidifying its place in literary history.

The new stamps feature artwork sourced directly from Hurd, designed by USPS’s Derry Noyes as Forever stamps, which will retain their value for First-Class Mail indefinitely. The stamps are available for purchase through various USPS channels, including their online store and local post offices. Fans of the book and collectors alike are encouraged to share their delight with the hashtag #GoodnightMoonStamps, reflecting the ongoing cultural impact of this beloved story.

The USPS continues to provide affordable, secure mail delivery services while engaging with the community through innovative products like these stamps. Their ongoing commitment to adapt in a digital-first world while celebrating traditional landmarks in American culture is evident in this latest release.