Welcome, Dark by author Charis St. Pierre and illustrator Rachel Wada is a poetic picture book in which young readers learn to explore the magic and mystery of nighttime instead of fearing it. Animals hide, leaves blow, seeds spread, and crops water as the world wakes anew in the morning. Stunning illustrations and comforting poetry make this bedtime story a classic. Highly recommended as a book for young ones who are afraid of the dark.
Charis St. Pierre, a grad student and parent from B.C., studies nature in children's literature. Fascinated by picture books, she explores how they shape kids' relationships with the environment. She lives with her family in Edmonton.
Rachel Wada's art blends texture, color and intricate detail to reflect real and surreal subjects. As a Japanese-Cantonese immigrant woman, Rachel draws inspiration from many sources, including Japanese woodblock prints, Chinese pottery and ceramics, food packaging design, and traditional folk art. Her works combine traditional and digital mediums. Rachel is based in Vancouver.
This hardcover books is 32 pages and measures 23.4cm x 23.6cm x 0.7cm. It is recommended for ages 3-5 and covers topics of the natural world, nocturnal creatures, the weather, and bedtime.