The Night Walk
by Marie Dorléans
5 out of 5 stars

Two children are awakened in the middle of night by their parents who lead them on an evening hike into the countryside. Through the village, past the fields of sleeping cows, and into the woodland, they walk slowly, enjoying the peace of the night and the light of the stars above them.

The graceful beauty of this simple book almost brought me to tears. I am in despair that I can never write a review that will capture the absolute glory I experienced while reading it. I wish I could give it 10 stars!

Each new landscape that we discover along the hike is like a magical new scene of wonder and beauty. The stars, the trees, the wildlife, the silence, the warm night air, and the chirping of crickets; all these things weave a spell of tranquil harmony around the reader.

The big mystery of the book is where the family is going. They keep saying they need to “get there on time.” And when their destination is revealed at the end… What a satisfying and splendid moment!

I am in complete awe of these illustrations! The use of light and dark is incredible, only using blue and grey and gentle yellows. You can actually FEEL the streetlights glowing on the page. The shadows cast by the flashlight sent me searching through the background of each page looking for little rabbits, and foxes, and owls in the forest. The little pinpoints of the stars are like a blessing over the entire scene.

I loved the peaceful expressions on the faces of the characters. A happy family, safe in the night, on a journey together for a unified purpose. Their faces say it all. What a complete delight!

I am utterly enchanted with this book!

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for a free and honest review. All the opinions stated here are my own true thoughts, and are not influenced by anyone.