Celebrating Childhood Classics: The Launch of Goodnight Moon Stamps
Unveiling the Goodnight Moon Stamps at The Rabbit hOle
On May 2, 2025, the U.S. Postal Service will unveil its latest collectible stamps at a special event at The Rabbit hOle in North Kansas City, Missouri. This unveiling coincides with Children's Book Week, celebrated from May 5-11, and features the iconic images from the beloved children's book, Goodnight Moon, which has been a favorite bedtime story for over 75 years.
The Event Details
The unveiling ceremony, free and open to the public, will commence at 11 a.m. Central Time. Attendees are encouraged to register for the event through the official USPS website, where they can also find more information about the stamps and other related events. The unveiling will be a festive occasion, promising to immerse attendees in the rich visuals and history of one of America's most adored children's books.
Special Guest Appearance
Among the notable guests will be Thacher Hurd, a children's book creator and son of the book's original illustrator, Clement Hurd. Thacher is set to share insights and personal anecdotes about his father and Goodnight Moon's author, Margaret Wise Brown. Attendees can look forward to a live reading of the classic book, providing an enchanting experience filled with nostalgia and literary magic.
The Significance of Goodnight Moon
Goodnight Moon, published in 1947 by Harper Brothers, has captured the hearts of generations since its release. The book invites children into the cozy world of a young bunny who bids goodnight to everything around him, creating a soothing bedtime ritual that encourages imaginative exploration of their own surroundings. The rhythmic and lilting text by Margaret Wise Brown reassures young readers that the familiar comforts of home will greet them in the morning, making it a quintessential bedtime read.
The vivid illustrations by Clement Hurd masterfully transition from bright to dim, mirroring the gentle descent into sleep. Earlier popularized in the 1950s largely through word-of-mouth recommendations among parents, the book has since ascended to the status of one of the best-selling children's books in history.
The Stamp Design
The new stamps are designed by Derry Noyes, an art director from USPS, utilizing Clement Hurd's beautiful illustrations that resonate with both nostalgia and joy. As Forever stamps, these will retain their value, making them a cherished item for collectors and a delightful way to share the essence of childhood with others.
What's Next?
After the unveiling, fans and collectors can purchase the stamps online at the USPS store and various retail locations. This initiative is part of a broader effort by the Postal Service to engage with younger audiences and promote literature through unique campaigns. By tapping into the enchanting world of children's literature, USPS is not only celebrating Goodnight Moon but also embodying the spirit of community and storytelling.
As excitement grows around the unveil, social media is already abuzz with the hashtag #GoodnightMoonStamps. Join the conversation and celebrate this special occasion that reaffirms the significance of childhood literature and creative imagination. As we anticipate May 2, let’s prepare to say goodnight to the familiar scenes that will once again come to life through stamps, fostering a love for reading and sharing stories across generations.