Praise for The Moon Without Stars:
Indie bestseller ♦ Indie Next List pick ♦ A Book Riot Best Books of 2026 (So Far)
* “Authentic and raw, this story is at once a timeless account of growing up and a tale that’s specific to this generation . . . Genuine and poignant; has the makings of a modern classic.” —Kirkus Reviews, starred review
* “Subtle, original, and lightly suspenseful, Luna’s journey toward learning to balance the complex ins and outs of social interaction with her own desires will resonate with those seeking community and understanding.” —Publishers Weekly, starred review
* “Miller accurately captures stigmas that persist through middle-school life, from periods to peer pressure. But young readers won't only see a reflection of their experiences on these pages, they'll find new perspectives . . . An unflinching, nuanced take on contemporary middle-school life.” —Booklist, starred review
* “Miller (Magnolia Wu Unfolds It All) writes Luna’s voice with authenticity and warmth, capturing the awkward humor, emotion, and self-discovery that define early adolescence . . . An authentic coming-of-age story that encourages empathy, accountability, and confidence.” —School Library Journal, starred review
* “Miller has crafted a sensitive, authentic voice for the protagonist . . . Readers will find comfort in the moments of levity and small acts of kindness in the story that balance these darker plot lines while also knowing that they, like Luna’s bibliotherapy subjects, are not alone.” —The Horn Book, starred review
* “Chanel Miller’s second novel . . . offers an almost painfully truthful portrait of social dynamics in middle school, when bodies, friendships and behaviors can change so quickly that life can spiral out of its previously contained orbit . . . The Moon Without Stars is a sophisticated, moving testament to admitting the damage one has caused and doing one’s best to repair it.” —BookPage, starred review
* “[An] exemplary work of middle-grade realism that is both immediately relatable and intensely kind, accessible to any child reader no matter their (perceived) place in their social hierarchy.” —Shelf Awareness, starred review
"Miller captures 'the high moments and the low, the disgusting and delightful' of Luna’s middle school experience, and the ensuing drama is both believable and relatable." —Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books