A richly illustrated picture book exploring light pollution and its surprising impact on nature and wildlife.
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 childrens 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.
Part of Eerdmans Spectacular STEAM for Curious Readers series. The books original edition was shortlisted for Italys Premio Piccolo Galileo (Little Galileo Award).
Danio Miserocchi is an Italian naturalist and teacher who works with museums and community organizations on conservation and biodiversity initiatives. He enjoys researching and exploring neglected species of flora and fauna in their environments. Follow Danio on Instagram @daniomiserocchi.
Maciej Michno earned a degree in computer science and now uses his skills to help communicate science and technology through text and images. At the Italian publisher Cocai Books, based in the city of Rovereto, he is an editor and administrative manager passionate about writing, proofreading, and all other sorts of processes.
Valentina Gottardi has pursued her dual passions of art and nature since childhood. At the Italian publisher Cocai Books, she serves as artistic director and designer for all projects, including this one. Learn more about Cocai Books on Instagram @cocaidesign.
Sylvia Notini has translated over 200 titles from Italian into English. Her translation of Just A Girl: A True Story of World War II (HarperCollins)won the 2023 Mildred L. Batchelder Award, and her translation of Chickenology: The Ultimate Encyclopedia (Princeton Architectural) was a finalist for the AAAS Prize for Excellence in Science Books. Sylvia lives in Castenaso, just outside of Bologna, Italy. Visit her website at sylvianotini.com.
"Beautiful...Gottardis artwork supports the concise yet engaging text and employs an interesting variety of styles...consistently maintains a level tone that never becomes alarmist or pins responsibility on kids to fix the situation." --Booklist (STARRED REVIEW)
"Absorbing, exquisitely illustrated...packed with details that will likely compel its audience to look at human-created illumination in a whole new light...easily comprehensible and intriguing...Those interested in science and the environment should find this striking book fascinating, but any reader can find enlightenment within." --Shelf Awareness (STARRED REVIEW)
"Behind the arts razzle-dazzle, a worthy call for attention to a burgeoning and underreported crisis." --Kirkus Reviews
"Absorbing nightscapes and intricate diagrams are at the center of this Italian import, a concise and information-rich introduction to light pollution and its far-reaching effects...perhaps will inspire young readers to look at the night and light in a new way." --School Library Journal
