Review: Shine

Cover of the book Shine by Bruno Valasse.

Review: Shine

Cover of the book Shine by Bruno Valasse.Shine

Written & illustrated by Bruno Valasse
Tundra Books, 2024

ISBN: 9781774884287 (hardcover)
ISBN: 9781774884294 (eBook)
$23.99 CAD (hardcover)
$11.99 CAD (eBook)
32 pages

Ages: 3-7 years old

Shine is a beautiful picture book following a little moth’s night time adventure as he conquers his fear of the dark. While the text isn’t particularly gripping, the book does have a sweet message about being yourself, facing your fears, and the importance of being a “light in the darkness.” What Shine may lack in its prose it definitely makes up for in phenomenal illustrations. Valasse’s use of bright, contrasting colours and unique art style immediately sucks you into the world of the story, like the little moth to the light. Each page is full of depth and hidden frogs to look out for, making for an interactive storytime experience. Shine is a good bedtime story choice for kids afraid of the dark, and its whimsical art style is sure to impress readers of all ages.