You Are Light

Becker (the Journey trilogy) celebrates life-sustaining light in this unusual board book. Blending science and poetry with just a few words, the text introduces the ways that light shapes our world: "It sips the sea/ to make the rain"; "It lights the moon/ to kiss the night." Corresponding symbols (a splashing ocean wave, a bright moon) lie at the center of each elegantly spare spread, surrounded by a ring of die-cut circles that gradually fill in with discs of transparent color as the pages turn. Like Hervé Tullet's Press Here, this title will invite interactive read-alouds--its sturdy cut-outs are perfectly sized for small hands. Forming a luminous, rainbow-hued sphere when the covers close, the circular pattern of colors resembles stained glass window panels in a house of worship, as well as a secular view through a kaleidoscope, reinforcing the mood of quiet awe and universal connection in the book's final lines: "This light is you. And you are the light." Becker's artful board book offers opportunities for tactile play and deeper contemplation. Final art not seen by PW. Ages 4-8. (Mar.)

PreS-This creative board book is an early introduction to STEM for young audiences. The cover is bright and colorful and designed to grab their attention. When the book is held up into the light, children can look through the 12 translucent circles of greens, blues, purples, oranges, and yellows. The story seems simple but has great depth. The title starts, "This is light that brings the dawn." The text is clever, too: "It sips the sea to make the rain." This, of course, refers to evaporation. The story lends itself to discussion with children and does an outstanding job of introducing complex ideas in a lighthearted, lyrical way. Although the word photosynthesis is never used, the concept of light feeding leaves is introduced. The text and illustrations work well together to create a sturdy, tactile experience will appeal to young children. VERDICT This is an age-appropriate concept book. Highly recommended as a first purchase for public libraries and preschools.--Robin Sofge, Prince William Public Library System, VA