“… always look, / really look / when it’s dark out.” A dark-haired child and adult woman of indeterminate race explore bioluminescence in the night, from foxfire and fireflies to a host of water creatures, in a picture book sure to inspire wonder. The brief primary narrative is only a few sentences long, with many page spreads featuring only a phrase. This is supplemented by a paragraph in smaller font that provides information about the organism or animal pictured. The illustrations in this informational picture book truly shine, with matte black backgrounds that make it seem as if the fascinating bioluminescent creatures shown are truly luminous.   (Ages 4-8)

In this “surprisingly simple yet mesmerizing introduction to a wonder of the natural world” (Kirkus STARRED Review), kids aged 4 to 8 will marvel at the science of bioluminescence through stunning images of glowing creatures and other organisms.

When it’s dark out, we need light to see. But what if your body could make its own light?

From acclaimed author-illustrator Julia Kuo comes a remarkable picture book about bioluminescence, the light made from living things, and its many forms: fireflies and foxfire, fungi and glow-worms, deep-sea fish and vampire squids.

Kuo’s radiant art portrays a young child and adult discovering different bioluminescent creatures, accompanied by simple lyrical text and informative sidebars that reveal fascinating scientific facts about each of them.

An introduction to an extraordinary natural phenomenon, Luminous shines a light upon how truly wondrous the world is.

Luminous features:

Brilliant and unique illustrations:The depiction of vibrant bioluminescent species against an unusual black backdrop creates an unforgettable visual experience for readers.

The science of bioluminescence: Shares the real-life magic of bioluminescence with sidebars about the various places and species in which bioluminescence is found.

Text can be read on two levels: Kuo’s simple and poetic narrative is accompanied by scientific facts about bioluminescence.