Picture Book Review: Luminous Living Things That Light Up the Night

Luminous:  Living Things That Light Up the Night is a stunningly beautiful picture book exploring the fascinating natural phenomenon of bioluminescence through the eyes of a young child and adult as they wander through the night learning about living creatures who produce their own light.

The text is made up of beautifully descriptive poetic narrative which encourages creativity, curiosity and imagination. Alongside this narrative, there is a range of fascinating scientific information about bioluminescence in a wide range of living organisms both on land and in water habitats including fireflies, glowworms, anglerfish and vampire squid. Did you know that foxfire is a light made by bioluminescent fungi glowing and growing on rotten wood?  Or that the crown jellyfish uses light like a burglar alarm by creating bright blue flashes when it is attacked?

I think the blending of poetic narrative in larger font (which a young child could enjoy on their own) and the amazing factual information in a smaller font (which may be better shared between an adult and child) is a brilliant way to introduce the science of bioluminescence in an appealing and educational manner.

The illustrations are absolutely stunning and depict the journey of child and adult through this incredible world where living organisms produce their own light to camouflage, to hunt and to defend.  The artwork of the living things that the child and adult discover is created against a black backdrop with vibrant primary colours of light:  blue, red and yellow in a range of shades. 

This beautiful picture book shines a light on a fascinating phenomenon in nature that is guaranteed to captivate and absorb young readers as they explore the illustrations, engage their imaginations and learn fascinating facts about bioluminescence in living organisms.  A wonderful book to enjoy and share with young readers of 4+.

Thank you to Catherine Ward and Greystone Kids Books for sending me a paperback copy of this gorgeous picture book in exchange for my honest opinion.