Night Lights by Susan Gal

Do we really need yet another bedtime book?

If it's Susan Gal's Night Lights, then yes, we do. The text is a simple list of lights at night; from streetlights to lightning, flashlights, fireflies, moonlight, and starlight. The illustrations are full of love and tender humor, as a little girl arrives home in the evening with her mother and enjoys the wonders of night lights.

I love the contrast between the sketchy, shadowy art and the bright patterns on the walls and furniture, although my favorite spread would be the marshmallow-stealing raccoons caught in a porch spotlight. Or maybe the cozy reading in bed scene with homage to Gene Zion.

Verdict: Delightful and perfect for winding down to bed with a young child or calming night-time fears.

ISBN: 0375858628; Published November 2009 by Knopf; Borrowed from the library; Purchased for the library; Added to my personal wishlist