Who Needs the Dark?

A celebration of the dark and all the ways it can heal, comfort, console, and create

About the Book

How do you feel about the dark? Is it creepy or cozy? Eerie or awesome? The dark doesn’t have to be scary. After all, it’s for sleeping, for growing, for healing, and for changing into something new. Humans depend on the dark for their health and well-being, and so do other living things.

A love letter to darkness, this informational picture book incorporates STEM content to gently encourage readers to look at the dark in new ways. Lyrical, poetic text and soft, striking illustrations make for a delightful read aloud.

Book Details

  • Author ‏ : ‎ Laura Alary
  • Illustrator ‏ : ‎ Risa Hugo
  • Publisher ‏ : ‎ Owlkids Books (September 16, 2025)
  • Language ‏ : ‎ English
  • ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 1771475579
  • ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1771475570

Reviews

Afraid of the dark? You won’t be after this tale … A surprisingly comforting and thoughtful ode to darkness.”

~ Kirkus

“The artwork is expressive and fascinating. It is colorful and detailed, encouraging readers to pay careful attention to what is included as these comparisons are drawn. In the end, those who share this book are encouraged to think about the wonder that is darkness.” 

~ Sal’s Fiction Addiction

“‘The dark is for becoming.’ This is one of my favourite lines in the book. This is a story that helps readers notice the good things that happen in the hidden, unseen places.”

~ CBOQ Kids