Luminous (living Things That Light Up The Night)

By (author) Kuo Julia; Illustrated by Kuo Julia
Description

In this “surprisingly simple yet mesmerizing introduction to a wonder of the natural world” (Kirkus STARRED ★Review), kids aged 4 to 8 will marvel at the science of bioluminescence through stunning images of glowing creatures and other organisms. 

When it’s dark out, we need light to see. But what if your body could make its own light? 

From acclaimed author-illustrator Julia Kuo comes a remarkable picture book about bioluminescence, the light made from living things, and its many forms: fireflies and foxfire, fungi and glow-worms, deep-sea fish and vampire squids. 

Kuo’s radiant art portrays a young child and adult discovering different bioluminescent creatures, accompanied by simple lyrical text and informative sidebars that reveal fascinating scientific facts about each of them.

An introduction to an extraordinary natural phenomenon, Luminous shines a light upon how truly wondrous the world is.

Luminous features: 

• Brilliant and unique illustrations: The depiction of vibrant bioluminescent species against an unusual black backdrop creates an unforgettable visual experience for readers. 
• The science of bioluminescence: Shares the real-life magic of bioluminescence with sidebars about the various places and species in which bioluminescence is found. 
• Text can be read on two levels: Kuo’s simple and poetic narrative is accompanied by scientific facts about bioluminescence.

Review quote
"Dramatic glowing illustrations on black pages depict an awestruck parent and child together discovering nature''s light show. . . A captivating read that shines a light on a fascinating phenomenon sure to spark kids'' curiosity and encourage them to embrace—rather than fear—the dark." —Hakai Magazine "Jellyfish, fireflies, forest fungi and more jump out from the dark pages of this visually striking book, offering a tantalising glimpse of a world that is so often hidden from us by our own light pollution. There''s a lyrical quality to author-illustrator Julia Kuo''s writing, but she is generous with the biological details too, whether it''s explaining how dragonfish shine a red light that enables them to find their prey in the dark ocean, or how piddock clams light up the hands and mouths of those who eat them. This charming book''s tone is one of wonder at the extraordinary abilities of animals all around us, but it doesn''t shy away from the difficult subject of how humans negatively impact the environment. As Kuo puts it, "If we used less light, what could we see?"" —BBC Wildlife Magazine, Children’s Book of the Month "Gorgeous….effectively capture[s] the subdued glow of bioluminescent life….The poetic text…encourages observation and wonder….a gentle warning that human-caused light pollution is making this amazing phenomenon increasingly difficult to see." —Horn Book ★ Review “Will intrigue children and make them feel they have learned something new without feeling as though they are being taught….the illustrations…immediately evoke the glow of bioluminescence. Lovely.”  — School Library Journal “With two-level text and illustrations that almost seem to glow, Kuo presents the phenomenon of bioluminescence … simple, poetic text and striking images make for an effective group read-aloud. A surprisingly simple yet mesmerizing introduction to a wonder of the natural world.” —Kirkus ★ Review “Appealing….Engaging, informative." — Booklist "Beautifully illustrated….arresting illustrations steal the show….a lovely introduction to bioluminescence, whether read as a snuggly bedtime story or shared in a group setting to a set a tone of appreciation for the beauties of nature." —Booklist ★ Review "Breathtaking…a re