Inside Outside

The tall format holds surprises for readers in this sophisticated, engaging book of opposites. Indeed there is a big bear and a small chair but there is also a big penguin and a little iceberg and other even less likely juxtapositions. Illustrations use limited but strong color and bold lines with a unique result.

Inside a tent it’s cozy. But what is going on outside? Is it dark? Is it scary? Not if you have your trusty flashlight! Told solely through images and using a spare yet dramatic palette, the author has crafted a masterful exploration of night, nature, and art. Both lyrical and humorous, this visual poem — like the flashlight beam itself — reveals that there is magic in the darkness.

Split pages encourage young readers to look carefully at the cheerful illustrations with bold lines and simple forms. As night approaches, a page turns to reveal no one is hiding and soon, almost everyone sleeps!