Medical illustrator Jennifer N.R. Smith (The Modern Bestiary illustrator) illuminates the fascinating mysteries of light-up life forms in the visually stunning nonfiction picture book Glow: The Wild Wonders of Bioluminescence.
The opening spread invites readers to imagine touching ocean water on a warm evening and observing that "tiny stars sparkle and then fade across your skin." The text is surrounded by a vibrant white-on-blue gradated illustration of dolphins and human hands trailing through glowing sea sparkle while jellyfish drift nearby, the white points leaping out at the eye like stars against a dark sky. The spellbinding spreads that follow investigate the anatomy and purpose behind bioluminescence, as well as tracing the history of research into the phenomenon and revealing surprising "hidden" bioluminescence in land-dwelling animals.
Radiant surprises await intrepid explorers in the depths of the sea and the heart of the forest, and Smith, who collaborated with marine biologist and bioluminescence expert Edith Widder (Below the Edge of Darkness), presents them in lush illustrations that shine in the oversized book format. UV ink technology lends an eye-popping phosphorescent effect to the wildlife and flora that adorn the pages, and short paragraphs of informational text pack a hefty dose of scientific knowledge. This brilliant dive into all things literally bright and beautiful is custom-made for curious upper-elementary scientists, though younger children and adults may also fall in love with the sheer beauty of the artwork. Back matter includes glossary; view under blacklight for phenomenal effects. --Jaclyn Fulwood, youth experience manager, Dayton Metro Library