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  • The Dark Is for by Jane Kohuth book cover
  • The Dark Is for by Jane Kohuth book cover
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The Dark Is for

by Jane Kohuth Publisher: SIMON & SCHUSTER BOOKS YOU

Critically Recognized
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Finding wonder in the dark

$18.74 USD
$31.24 USD $18.74 USD
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Hardcover New English

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Awards & Recognition

  • Author recognition

    Illustrator Cindy Derby is a Caldecott Honoree

    Caldecott Honoree recognition is attributed to illustrator Cindy Derby, not this book’s credited author.

  • Critical praise

    Kirkus Reviews starred review

    Starred review; praises the book’s “dreamy coziness.”

AlbakiReads Editorial

Finding wonder in the dark

Nighttime becomes a setting for discovery in this picture book, which pairs brief, poetic statements about darkness with images of life in the deep sea and forest after nightfall. Its subject is both the unease shadows can bring and the beauty found in their stillness. The book frames darkness not simply as an absence of light, but as a place where creatures move, shine, and dream—offering a nature-centered way to explore what changes when day gives way to night.

Good fit for readers who enjoy

  • Children ages 4–8 exploring nighttime and the natural world
  • Families seeking a picture book to share and discuss together
  • Young readers curious about creatures active after dark

Themes

Night and darknessNocturnal wildlifeWonder in natureFacing fear of the dark

Based on publisher information and book metadata.

Book overview

Two starred reviews!

Magic comes to life when night arrives in this "lyrical" (BCCB, starred review) picture book full of "dreamy coziness" (Kirkus Reviews, starred review) with gorgeous illustrations by Caldecott Honoree Cindy Derby about embracing the beauty of darkness.

The dark is for flying.
The dark is for shining.
The dark is for dreaming...

Though darkness can be scary, beauty can be found in the stillness of the shadows. And in this stunning tale filled with poetic words and gorgeous art, we celebrate the darkness. From the creatures dancing in the blackness of the deep sea to those that wake when night falls in the forest, we feel the magic come to life.

Jane Kohuth's musical text and Cindy Derby's stunning illustrations take us on an unforgettable journey to all the spectacular wonders that can only be found in the darkest of places.
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Customer reviews

M
AlbakiReads
Malaika Taylor

I highly recommend to for anyone looking for inner clarity

T
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Thomas DiMassa

Great service and fast service

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Ella

Great shopping experience! The book arrived quickly, was well packaged, and matched the description perfectly. I would definitely shop with you again

O
AlbakiReads
Olivia

Smooth.