October 27, 2025
10 Must-Read Books to Explore “Investigating Lights, Shadows, and Reflections”
This November, our Creatively Shine® curriculum theme, “Investigating Lights, Shadows, and Reflections,” invites children to explore the magic of light and dark through science, art, and storytelling. From learning how light bends and bounces to discovering how shadows dance and change shape, this theme sparks endless curiosity.
To help you continue the learning and wonder at home, we’ve selected 10 enchanting books that illuminate the many ways light and shadow shape our world — and our imaginations.
1. The House in the Night by Susan Marie Swanson
Winner of the Caldecott Medal, this poetic bedtime story follows the comforting glow of light through the darkness. Its striking black, white, and gold illustrations remind children that even in darkness, light is always near.
This nearly wordless picture book lets children step into the quiet excitement of nighttime exploration. Using only the beam of a flashlight, young readers discover a hidden world of color and movement in the dark.
3. Moonbear’s Shadow by Frank Asch
A curious bear learns why his shadow follows him—and how it changes throughout the day. This classic story beautifully introduces early science concepts like light direction and shadow formation in a way preschoolers easily grasp.
Through witty storytelling and expressive art, this story helps children confront their fear of the dark. It gently shows that darkness has its purpose, too—and that understanding can replace fear with curiosity.
5. Light: Shadows, Mirrors, and Rainbows by Natalie M. Rosinsky
Perfect for budding scientists, this nonfiction picture book offers simple, hands-on explanations of how light works. It’s a great way to extend classroom learning into at-home discovery time.
6. The Very Lonely Firefly by Eric Carle
Follow a tiny firefly as it searches for other lights in the night. Eric Carle’s luminous illustrations bring this story to life, teaching children about bioluminescence and the beauty of connection.
7. The Black Rabbit by Philippa Leathers
When a timid rabbit notices a dark shape following him, he doesn’t realize it’s just his own shadow. This gentle, funny story helps children understand shadows in a relatable and reassuring way.
8. On a Beam of Light: A Story of Albert Einstein by Jennifer Berne
This inspiring picture book introduces children to Albert Einstein’s boundless curiosity and wonder about light, time, and space. It’s a wonderful reminder that big discoveries begin with big questions.
9. Shadow Chasers by Elly MacKay
Through dreamy illustrations and lyrical text, two children chase their shadows in the fading light of day. This poetic story captures the joy of movement, imagination, and the fleeting magic of sunset play.
10. The Lights That Dance in the Night by Yuval Zommer
A stunning celebration of the Northern Lights, this book’s glowing artwork and rhythmic storytelling introduce children to one of nature’s most magical displays—and the beauty of light across our world.
Whether your child is exploring shadows on the wall, catching fireflies, or marveling at the stars, these stories will inspire wonder, curiosity, and creativity.
✨ Happy reading, and may your days (and nights) be full of light!