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Description
A richly illustrated picture book exploring light pollution and its surprising impact on nature and wildlife. When streetlights outshine the stars, what does that mean for plants, animals, and us?
This absorbing nonfiction picture book investigates artificial light and its unexpected impact on our planet. Who Hid the Stars? explores fascinating topics including how artificial light developed throughout history, from fire to LEDs, and how city lights interrupt bird migration patterns. Discover how streetlights gather insects and their predators, how turtles struggle to hatch without darkness, and how plant growth changes in artificial light.
With lush ink, acrylic, and digital illustrations and scientifically sound, yet approachable text, Who Hid the Stars? is a memorable way to explore conservation and biodiversity. This book will ignite children's curiosity and inspire them to take care of Earth—starting by turning out the lights.
Gr 2-5--Absorbing nightscapes and intricate diagrams are at the center of this Italian import, a concise and information-rich introduction to light pollution and its far-reaching effects. Opening with a brief history of artificial light's development, each subsequent section spotlights different corners of the plant and animal kingdoms, illustrating both the positive and negative impacts of nighttime illumination. Two levels of text on each spread create a degree of browsability that will be appealing to a wide range of readers. Each topic overview is paired with more detailed examples, including how bird and insect flight patterns can be disrupted by artificial light and how perennial plants may experience lengthened growing seasons. Three wordless spreads invite readers to pause and absorb the atmosphere, though for some, these interruptions may feel a bit out of place or without purpose. The artwork, done in acrylic paint, digital media, and ballpoint pen, will draw in young readers. Dark, velvety backgrounds allow vivid colors to break through, and in some spreads, show animals cleverly camouflaged in the shadows. This immersive approach underscores the book's central message about what is lost when true darkness disappears and perhaps will inspire young readers to look at the night and light in a new way. VERDICT A visually appealing and browsable offering that will be appropriate for many nonfiction collections.--Louie Lauer
Copyright 2026 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.
Danio Miserocchi is an Italian naturalist and teacher who works with museums and community organizations on conservation and biodiversity initiatives. He enjoys researching and exploring neglected species of flora and fauna in their environments.
