Note: I received a signed F&G copy at ALA Midwinter 2020. I also received a digital review copy through NetGalley. ( )

Children experience and interact with all kinds of light in this rhyming picture-book, from the beauty of the sunset to the enchantment of the Aurora Borealis, the flickering flame of a birthday candle to the exploding wonder of fireworks. The importance of light to various cultural and religious celebrations - Yi Peng, Holi, Hanukkah, Christmas - is also touched upon. The book concludes with a two-page discussion of the science of light, and more information about its role in some of the cultural traditions mentioned...

Pairing a simple text - just a few words on each two-page spread - from American author Sue Fliess with gorgeous artwork from Vietnamese illustrator Khoa Le, Flash and Gleam: Light in Our World is a picture-book that would be suitable for very young children. The front dust-jacket flap recommends it for ages five through eight, but I think this is a bit of a stretch. The afterword would certainly be suitable for an audience in this age range, but the main narrative strikes me as being too basic for children at this level. I'm a great admirer of Khao Le's artwork - indeed, I tracked this one down largely because of the illustrations - and I was not disappointed on that score, but I think the book suffers from some confusion, when it comes to its target audience. Leaving that aside, I do recommend it, both to fellow fans of Khoa Le, and to those seeking lovely, peaceful books for their toddlers' bedtime. ( )

Light is everywhere and a huge part of our world. There are many forms and there is an explanation behind them all. This book explains the different forms of life and the science behind it all in a fun and interesting way for children. It is a great book to integrate into a science lesson and assess prior knowledge with students. ( )