Aaron Becker is the Caldecott Honor-winning author-illustrator of the Journey trilogy and of A Stone for Sascha. He lives in western Massachusetts with his family.
Explore the ways sunlight enriches the Earth, enhanced by colorful, dynamically shifting die-cut circles. Don't be fooled by the board-book format; there's plenty for readers of all ages in this interactive art book, written as a poetic ode to the power and importance of light...Becker uses the glowing swatches of color powerfully. Variegated shades of blue circle a wave's crest; a decorative trio of gold, lime, and violet halos grain; a stark penultimate page of white moon against black background has no color at all. This book is demanding of its readers, but those who take the time are in for a treat. A well-crafted art book with emotional resonance. --Kirkus Reviews (starred review) The story lends itself to discussion with children and does an outstanding job of introducing complex ideas in a lighthearted, lyrical way...The text and illustrations work well together to create a sturdy, tactile experience will appeal to young children. This is an age-appropriate concept book. Highly recommended as a first purchase for public libraries and preschools. --School Library Journal (starred review) 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. --Publishers Weekly You simply have to experience this one for yourself, especially for the final spread. Simply exquisite. --Kirkus Reviews (blog)