WILD & WONDERFUL WEDNESDAY : Who Hid the Stars? by Valentina Gottardi, Maciej Michno, and Danio Miserocchi
ABOUT THE BOOK
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
How city lights interrupt bird migration patterns
How streetlights gather insects—and their predators
How turtles struggle to hatch without darkness
How plant growth changes in artificial light
How humans can fight light pollution and stop it from harming nature!
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.
Translated from Italian by Batchelder Award winner Sylvia Notini, Who Hid the Stars? includes a glossary of terms, a further reading list, and a link to the authors’ bibliography. The browsable book is ideal for STEAM units along with Earth Day and World Wildlife Day celebrations.
REVIEW
Who Hid the Stars? focuses on the effect that human-created artificial light has on wildlife. Artificial light not only prevents people from seeing the stars but it interferes with the natural behavior of a variety of animals. Artificial light also contributes to human health problems related to sleep disorders, depression, and heart disease. The book presents information about artificial light and its effects on a variety of different creatures. The authors make the point that artificial light is created to be useful but could be managed more effectively to minimize effects on wildlife and people. Streetlights attract birds who need a place to nest but the lack of darkness can prevent them from getting adequate sleep. Lights can also cause birds to get lost when they can't see the stars they need to migrate. Many insects are attracted to artificial light which interferes with their search for food and finding a mate. Each section of the book highlights specific species that experience effects from artificial light. Bats, lizards, sea turtles, and spiders are other creatures who experience the advantages (easier to find prey) and disadvantages (cars & predators) of streetlights, porch lights, and other types of human-created lighting. Even plants exposed to artificial light change their behavior making them more vulnerable to changing climate and weather conditions. The illustrations created using pen, acrylic paint, and digital media beautifully highlight the animals impacted by artificial light, including some double page spreads. Back matter includes a link to the bibliography, a glossary, resources for further learning, and ideas for reducing light pollution. This book, imported and translated from Italian conveys important information in an accessible, straightforward way. Highly recommended.
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