Under the Clam Moon by Kaitlyn Wells

A Lyrical, Moonlit Ode to Family Traditions and the Wonders of the Shore

“Tonight we hunt for doughnuts… but not the sugary kind.” Under the soft glow of the moon, a girl and her Uncle Darius head out for a quiet walk along the beach, searching for tiny “doughnut” holes in the sand — the clue that clams are hiding below. While Mama and her little brother stay warm by the fire, the two of them move slowly through the night, digging, watching, and waiting… only to discover that these clams are surprisingly quick.

Under the Clam Moon by Kaitlyn Wells, illustrated by Mariyah Rahman, is a gentle, atmospheric story about patience, connection, and small shared moments that turn into lasting memories. The deep blues and purples of the artwork create a calm, almost dreamlike mood, and a subtle, playful twist at the end adds just the right touch of warmth and humor.

Why this book is helpful:

• Celebrates Intergenerational Bonding: Highlights the special, playful relationship between a child and their uncle.
• Encourages Nature Exploration: Inspires kids to look closer at the world around them, even after the sun goes down.
• Includes STEM Fun: The backmatter features a guide to Pacific Northwest clams and real-life clamming tips, blending storytime with science.
• Promotes Patience: Teaches that the “hunt” and the time spent together are just as valuable as the prize.

If you’re heading to the coast, this is the perfect book to pack in your beach bag. Use the guide in the back to identify what you find in the sand.

This post may contain affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.