The English Roses writing children's books. Madonna's Kabbalah teacher had asked her to share the wisdom she had gained through her studies of Jewish mysticism in the form of stories meant for children. The singer felt this was a "cool challenge", although it was an "out-left-field" idea completely different from her musical endeavors. While reading stories to her children at bedtime, Madonna found the books lacked spiritual messages. She also felt that the stories' fairy-tale characters, like Cinderella or Sleeping Beauty, appeared passive and were moved around according to the princes' wishes. Madonna, who was inspired by stories by F. Scott Fitzgerald, Ernest
Blue Roses from the Moons critic Thom Owens wrote, "Though the slick sound is a little disarming for longtime fans, Griffith's songwriting remains skilled and assured, and while there aren't as many standout numbers as before, her graceful melodicism and lyricism and the professional production makes Blue Roses From the Moons a very pleasant listen." All tracks composed by Nanci Griffith except where indicated. Blue Roses from the Moons Blue Roses from the Moons is a studio album by Nanci Griffith, released in March 1997. The album was recorded from live takes in the studio, with her band "The Blue Moon Orchestra" and Jerry Allison,