As we approach the winter solstice with its abbreviated daylight, many of us in the Pacific Northwest find ourselves in need of a little light therapy. To infuse some much-needed luster into our lives, we’ve compiled an eclectic-and electric-selection of books, music, and videos. Cozy up in a chair and read by the radiant warmth of a fire, in the silvery rays of the sun, or by the incandescent glow of a full-spectrum bulb, and ponder the phenomenon of phosphorescence. And take heart, dear reader, as there is no better season for bibliophiles than winter.
Celebrations of Light: A Year of Holidays Around the World by Nancy Luenn; illustrated by Mark Bender
Author Nancy Luenn enlightens young readers on the role of light in many world cultures’ celebrations, including Candlemas, Bon Matsuri, Diwali, Hanukkah, Luciadagen, and Kwanza.
Eating the Sun : How Plants Power the Planet by Oliver Morton
In this energizing and informative book, Oliver Morton passionately examines life’s most essential phenomenon: photosynthesis.
How Raven Stole the Sun by Maria Williams; illustrated by Felix Vigil
This poignant Tglingit tale for all ages relates the legend of the Raven and how he wrestled the stars, moon, and sun from a possessive chief’s grasp and became dark as night in the process.
Light Years: An Exploration of Mankind’s Enduring Fascination with Light by Brian Clegg
Armchair travelers rejoice! Leading popular science author Brian Clegg explains the advances in phosphorescent sciences that could finally make time travel possible.
Electric Arguments (CD) by The Fireman
The mysterious duo of Paul McCartney and Youth make a resounding return ten years after their debut album, with this high-wattage electronic/dance music CD. Selections include “Traveling Light,” “Light from Your Lighthouse,” and “Sun Is Shining.”
The Way Things Work: Light (DVD) produced by Emmanuel Franck; directed by Diego Zamora
This fascinating video, based on the book by David Macaulay, introduces children to some of the fundamentals of light. Two young Mammoth Islanders and an inventor learn about the properties of light by observing a room full of crystal trophies, as well as through lenses, telescopes, periscopes, 
and binoculars.
Sun Salutations (DVD) by Shiva Rea
Invoke the sun with Shiva Rea’s Sun Salutations video, featuring elegant and powerful yoga poses that focus on variations of sun salutations. Includes a music-only option.
~ Ellen C
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