Nightlights

Sandy is a dreamer. She catches the lights that come to her in the night and then captures them on paper in the daylight. Her drawings are her escape and refuge from a reality that includes over-strict teachers and bullying classmates. However, there is a danger when the imaginary tries to take over.

A luminous colour palette brings Sandy’s imagination to life. Filling expansive double page spreads the reader is invited into this world in which Sandy can act out  her fears and frustrations, finding the validation she longs for. It is a seductive world posing a choice that is a real one; will Sandy make the right one? Alvarez’ presentation is clear and uncluttered enabling young readers – even those less familiar with the graphic novel format – to access the story easily. There is a clear distinction between the world of the convent school and that of Sandy’s imagination. The plot develops with just enough jeopardy to create a real tension. The conclusion is open ended – as it should be.