Afraid of the Light: A Story About Facing Your Fears

“Ditter von Dapp liked his home in a cave. He couldn’t stand going in the light so he always stayed in the shade. Then one day he loses his shoe and he can’t find it anywhere. Will he dare create some light to find it or keep search around in the dark?

The text is long. This is a book for an older audience for sure. I liked that it rhymed. The illustration style was unique, and I think it worked well for when the Ditter was in the cave and the dark. However, when he makes the change, I would have liked to see some change in the character’s appearance as well. As far as the plot, while there is a conflict, it felt like a long book for what it is. I do understand the imprint is trying to show the fundamentals of light and dark in Buddhism. I like the message of this book and going toward the light. My kids thought the pictures were unusual.

Age Recommendation: six to eight years old.”