Dark on Light Perfect Picture Book Friday

A lyrical exploration of the beauty of night.

text copyright Dianne White, 2022, illustrations copyright Felicita Sala, 2022, Beach Lane Books

DARK ON LIGHT, written in mesmerizing rhyme and coupled with captivating illustrations, is sure to inspire readers to grab a flashlight, go outside, and explore the wonder of night. Animals, vegetation, and starry skies take on a spellbinding beauty in this gorgeous picture book. 

What I love most about DARK ON LIGHT is in the way the lullingly lyrical text mingles with the adventure that is depicted in the illustrations.  Astute readers will notice that the children are not just out exploring their nighttime surroundings. Subtle clues along the way let the reader know that there is something else going on entirely. The siblings are not just out on a night walk, but rather leading a search! This element of mystery and discovery is sure to encourage multiple readings, making this a perfect choice for library and classroom learning, or bedtime snuggling!

Title:  DARK ON LIGHT

Author:  Dianne White

Illustrator:  Felicita Sala

Publisher:  Beach Lane Books, 2022

Ages:  3-8

Themes:  Night, Siblings, Natural World, Discovery, Problem-solving

Here are a few activities that align with the themes of this book:

• Take a night walk with a parent or caregiver. Use your five senses to discover the sights, sounds, and scents of nighttime.
• Write a poem about night! Consider including sensory words in your poem. (For a list of sensory words, click here.)
• Brainstorm a list of nocturnal animals. Write a story or draw a picture about a nocturnal animal's adventures at night.
• Pair with Marie Dorleans' The Night Walk.
• Conversation starters:  "Which is your favorite--day or night? Why?" "What is your favorite thing to do at night?" "If you were a nocturnal animal, which one would you be?"

Looking for more perfect picture books? Check out Susanna Leonard Hill's website!