The Stars Just Up the Street

Description

A grandpa's memories of brilliant night skies inspire a little girl to take action in a tale for budding community organizers and star lovers alike. Mabel loves stars. She counts five from her window and thirty-seven from her back garden. But her grandpa tells her that, as a child, he could see thousands. Could it be true? Mabel climbs a hill looking for more stars - only to discover that the nearby glow from town makes them hard to see. What would it take for her neighbours to turn off their lights, just for one night, so that everyone could see the starlit sky? Sue Soltis's tale of a young activist and Christine Davenier's luminous illustrations will leave readers curious about the dark-sky movement - and the wonder that is waiting for them just up the street.

Sue Soltis is the author of the picture book Nothing Like a Puffin, illustrated by Bob Kolar. She lives in North Carolina, USA. Christine Davenier is the award-winning illustrator of many picture books, including Nadia: The Girl Who Couldn't Sit Still by Karlin Gray and The Cat With Seven Names by Tony Johnston. Christine Davenier lives in Paris. Find her online at https://www.christinedavenier.com/

There is a message here about urban light pollution which could prompt some interesting conversations with older children, but also this is a lovely picture book with beautiful pen and ink colour illustrations which reminds us of the joy of taking time out to do quiet things like look at the stars ... Perfect for bedtime. * Booktrust *