Arctic Lights, Arctic Nights

I read this book as an adult simply for pleasure. I think it goes beyond being appealing only to children; because it captures with an intense sense of wonder this faraway place in the world, it speaks to people of any age who still feel a thrill when they view a beautiful sunset. The collaboration of author and illustrator is almost musical - Debbie S. Miller is a natural lyrical writer, and Jon Van Zyle meets her with very moving acrylic paintings on the same level. And that level is artistry at its best. In fact, I am so impressed that I put several more collaborations of the two on my wish list for future enjoyment. The enjoyment of this particular book is being introduced to a faraway place that, for me at least, one knows little about. It is like opening a door to a treasure trove: here is the snowshoe hare whose coat is brown in summer, white in winter; here is the cow moose that I had never even heard of; bears, ground squirrels, wolves, trumpeter swans are just a few of the Artic inhabitants. One learns of the most extraordinary weather, formation of clouds and what "blinks" are, the awesome changing light, what "sun dogs" are, and what is exactly meant by the term "Midnight Sun." And, of course, the northern lights which I have always longed to see. Enchanting is the best word I can think of to sum up this book. Ms. Miller has a natural gift for choosing the right words. And the illustrations are perfect.

Ordered this book after travelling to Alaska to see the Northern Lights and I have to say I was very pleased with the art and the storyline.