Saving the Night - (Orca Footprints) by Stephen Aitken (Hardcover)

About the Book

This nonfiction book introduces middle-grade readers to the effects of light pollution. Illustrated with photos throughout, it examines why darkness is important for plants, animals and people, and the practical things we can do to protect the night sky for all ecosystems on the planet.

Book Synopsis

Light pollution threatens the survival of every living species on our planet, including people.

It started when Thomas Edison invented the first light bulb more than 150 years ago. Then, as electric light became more common, light pollution began to take over cities and towns. Today, in urban centers all over the world, the stars in the sky aren't visible. Millions of people have never seen the Milky Way. In Saving the Night, we discover how plants and animals have adapted over millions of years to survive and thrive in the dark, and how artificial light can upset the balance of entire ecosystems. But there are ways we can take back the night for animals, plants and us. It starts with the flick of a switch.

Review Quotes

"Learning about ways to reduce light pollution gives students opportunities to be educated and engaged citizens who can make careful choices about how light is used in their own lives."

-- "BC Books for Schools"

"This book gives us ways to love the night, and be part of the movement to keep darkness with us. The author shows how to be a part of a darker movement, for the betterment of all...A beautiful eye opener."

-- "Children's Literature Comprehensive Database (CLCD)"

"Invites middle graders interested in learning more about how light pollution is a threat to every living thing on the planet."

-- "Sal's Fiction Addiction"

"Readers will be inspired to take notice and take actions...A wonderful new volume in the Footprints series."-- "Erica Sommer, Baker & Taylor"

"Flashes on a too often unconsidered sort of environmental pollution."-- "Kirkus Reviews"

"[An] informative addition to the Footprints series...This organized, involving book will fill a gap in many library collections."-- "Booklist"

"Both personal and poetic...A very comprehensive look at the role of light in the natural world and the effect of light pollution on all living organisms. This book deserves to be available and promoted in schools and libraries. Saving the night for all of us is worth it. Highly Recommended."-- "CM: Canadian Review of Materials"

"Richly described and alluring...Aitken urges his readers to be unafraid of the dark and after reading this excellent book, tweens will want to venture forth into the night without a flashlight."-- "School Library Journal"

About the Author

Stephen Aitken is a biologist, artist and science writer who has been creating children's books for the past 15 years. Stephen's books and articles are inspired by the wonders of the natural world. He has explored the forests, oceans and mountaintops of the world at all times of the day and night. Stephen is the co-founder and executive secretary of the charity Biodiversity Conservancy International and senior editor of the journal Biodiversity. He lives in Ottawa.