When the Lights Went Out

When the Lights Went Out by Lian Tanner, illustrated by Jonathan Bentley (Allen & Unwin) HB RRP $24.99 ISBN: 9781761180019

Reviewed by Dannielle Viera

There is a power outage one frosty evening, and the lights disappear from every house on the street. A little boy is scared, but his fear fades as he accompanies his parents on an entertaining exploration of the ‘night country’ in search of candles. Then music starts playing outside. They rug up and run to the road, only to discover that the whole neighbourhood has shown up to listen. The cold, black night becomes a balmy, bright party brimming with wide smiles and happy spirits.

Lian Tanner’s evocative story is aimed at youngsters aged four to six with an anxiety about darkness. When shadows loom and slant, kids can ‘sing brave songs’ and draw courage from connections with friends and family – reassured that they are never alone. Kindness and community come together to banish the bad and to illuminate the good, and the feeling is as comforting as a piggyback from Dad. 

Dynamic lines crisscross Jonathan Bentley’s beautifully coloured images, drawing small eyes deeper and deeper into the spreads. Cool blues and greens wash over the night-time world, but the illustrations remain tethered to warmth through golden candle flames, rich red roofs and vibrant winter clothes.

Blackouts are a common experience – and often frightening for children – but When the Lights Went Out reveals just how much fun they can be. By igniting the spark of curiosity, a brilliant adventure into the ‘night country’ can begin …