Time to Shine: Celebrating the World’s Iridescent Animals

Eye-popping color bursts from each page in this picture book about the science of iridescence in the animal world. You’ll be dazzled by the flash of feathers, scales, shells and skin, examples of this adaptation that allows animals to survive by standing out or blending in. The brilliant colors are important for communication, defense and even to make energy. Many of the animals shown will be familiar—butterflies, dragonflies, mallard ducks, peacocks, hummingbirds and fish—while a few may be less known (reed frog, rainbow boa, jumping spider).

The rhyme and rhythm are perfect in the couplets that reflect facts presented in short inserts. The lyrical language makes Time to Shine a wonderful read-aloud. Additional explanations deepen understanding of iridescence in a summary page at the end: how it works, why it is a special feature for some animals, how long ago it existed (161 million years ago, a dinosaur had iridescent feathers) and how today’s scientists hope to apply what they learn about it to new technologies.

The digitally rendered illustrations, described variously as sparkly, brilliant, sequined, shiny, or flashy, started life as pencil sketches before being completed with software for stunning results. Their size, color and animation will delight young readers.

Time to Shine is a most appealing addition to STEAM resources and a pleasurable way to learn about this fascinating aspect of nature.