A truly fresh and formidable debut by Emily Haworth-Booth. This is an outstanding first offering from the multi-faceted author/illustrator, undoubtedly a new name to keep an eye on.
‘The King Who Banned The Dark‘ is a humorous and shrewdly observed modern fable with clear political undertones.
A thought-provoking tale, highlighting the importance of the dark in order for us to enjoy and appreciate the light.
“There was once a little boy who was afraid of the dark. There’s nothing unusual about that. But this little boy was a Prince, and he decided that when he became King, he would do something about the dark.”
The newly appointed King arranges to ban the dark & claims the negative effects it has upon his people, so he installs an artificial sun and enforces anti-dark laws, but at what cost?
What will happen when nobody can sleep, and the citizens begin to revolt?
Will the King face-up to his fears and turn the lights off?
Haworth-Booth‘s astute narrative, coupled with her distinctive illustrative style makes for a sagacious story.
Pitched perfectly for a younger audience, this shrewd story sheds light on the manipulative behaviours of those in power and supports the need to stand up for what is just.
This is without doubt a book to be shared with young people everywhere, positively promoting the power of the people, culminating in a joyous twist at the end of this illuminating tale.
With a limited yet hugely powerful palette, this makes for a delightful read and one which will be integral to inciting discussion among our future revolutionaries.
picture books blogger 
The premise is brilliant, and so are the illustrations and the book cover (as seen in this post). Your blog is really unique. 🙂
^ I have never seen anyone highlighting picture-based novels. 🙂 It’s cool, you know.