Flash and Gleam: Light in Our World

K-Gr 2–This colorful, informational picture book looks at the many sources of light in the world around us. Short, dynamic stanzas have a riddle-like quality: “Glimmer/Glow/Wish and blow”; “Color/Bend/Find the end”; “Blink/Play/Show the way.” Le’s richly atmospheric, mixed-media illustrations depict the forms of light in colorful, slice-of-life vignettes that follow four children. The children’s experiences are subtly interconnected, and some double-page spreads feature four panels that show everyone waking up in a stream of sunshine, gazing upon the same sunset, and watching a fireworks display. Each family also celebrates a festival of light, including Diwali, Yi Peng, Hanukkah, and Christmas. Back matter includes a scientific exploration of light, as well as brief descriptions of the cultural holidays mentioned.