Book Review: Rainbows in the Dark – by Jan Coates

Rainbows in the DarkBook: Rainbows in the Dark
Author: Jan Coates
Illustrator: Alice Priestley
Publisher: Second Story Press
Date: January 1, 1999
Genre: Picture book ; ages 5-8
Pages: 24
Price: $14.95
My Rating: A touching, inspiring story to thrill all ages

I was delighted to find an author-signed copy of Rainbows in the Dark in a local independent bookstore. Look at the cover, isn’t it beautiful? This is a book I’d heard about but not yet seen, so I was happy to get my hands on it. Having read and reviewed (October 22’11) A Hare in the Elephant’s Trunk by Canadian author Jan Coates, and interviewed her (October 28’11,) I was eager to read this picture book.

 

This is a wonderful story about the new and different experience of a little girl out shopping with her mother. Abby did not want to shop in the secondhand clothing store and was sullen and bored waiting for her mother – until a woman came in with a dog. Abby told the lady no dogs were allowed in there, and then learned Charlie was a working dog – and the lady, Joanna, was blind.

Joanna enlisted Abby’s help finding things for a special event. In that way Abby observed what it is like to be unable to see. In appreciation for her help, Joanna gave Abby two tickets for a special event. When Abby and her mother attended, what a surprise awaited them! In fact, for Abby there were two surprises – one being a wish come true.  

Rainbows in the Dark is a lovely read, one that will bring awareness to children – and grown-ups, too – of what it is like to be visually impaired. Canadian illustrator Alice Priestley complemented Jan Coates‘ story perfectly, as I hope you will get a chance to see for yourself.  

You can find Rainbows in the Dark listed on my BUY THE BOOK! page.

Thanks for reading, and … Creative Musings!  🙂

10 thoughts on “Book Review: Rainbows in the Dark – by Jan Coates”

  1. I love your Buy the Book option, Lynn!! I just bought Rainbows in the Dark. Thank you for making it so easy and for introducing me to this wonderful book through your review!!

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    1. Thank you, Sue, for trying it out. I’m glad it’s convenient for you.
      I know you’ll love Rainbows in the Dark as much as I do. 🙂

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  4. I can hardly believe RAINBOWS is 10 years old this year, but I still love sharing it with kids when I visit schools – in particular 400 5 and 6 year olds at a Sikh private school in Surrey, BC last week. Thanks so much, Lynn, for your thoughtful review.

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    1. Wow! That is so nice, Jan! How wonderful. Rainbows is a beautiful book, such a sweet and touching story.
      Thanks for sharing about your school visit. 🙂

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I look forward to reading your greatly appreciated comments. Thanks for making my day! :)

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