Every once in a while comes really terrific news about the publishing industry, like this report on the recent rise of book sales, particularly in the 5-8 year old range. It’s something to celebrate, not only if you’re a book author, but also if you’re a book lover because it means there’s still a vast and eager audience out there for all the lovely books–especially picture books—that keep finding their way into my mail slot for review.

Here’s my roundup of 10, all picture books about nighttime and the dark, which will certainly help any child afraid of lights’-out to feel a little more secure come bedtime.