Dark Nights and Light Hearts

2026 ALSC Notable Children’s Book

Islamic culture and the early-learning concept of opposites come together in this stunning companion to Golden Domes and Silver Lanterns.

From the warmth of burning incense to the coolness of summer rain, this richly illustrated book of opposites is a feast for the senses, celebrating Islamic culture and family togetherness through special occasions, big and small. Like Golden Domes and Silver Lanterns, Crescent Moons and Pointed Minarets, and One Sun and Countless Stars, this latest offering features Mehrdokht Amini's signature mixed-media illustrations and Hena Khan's rhyming read-aloud text and informative back matter. It is equally at home in the classroom and being read on a parent's lap.

EARLY LEARNING CONCEPTS: Each book in the series offers an excellent introduction to a new early learning concept: colors, shapes, numbers, and now opposites!


AWARD-WINNING AUTHOR: Hena Khan’s picture books have garnered numerous awards, including Parents’ Choice Recommended Seal, Booklist Top 10 Religion Book for Youth, Chicago Public Library Best Book, and ALA Notable Children’s Book nominee, among many others.


ACCESSIBLE RELIGIOUS LITERACY: This book is perfect for anyone looking for picture books to teach religious literacy or about Islam, as well as Muslim parents and grandparents looking for picture books that reflect their culture/faith.


MUSLIM TALENT: Created by a Muslim Pakistani American author and a Muslim Persian British illustrator, this book reflects their shared experiences and vision. 


INFORMATIVE BACK MATTER: Includes a comprehensive glossary and an author’s note, to take learning even further.

Perfect for:


Young readers ready to learn about opposites


Anyone looking for picture books to teach religious literacy and/or about Islam


Muslim parents and grandparents looking for picture books to share with their children


Parents and educators looking for picture books to build early learning concept fluency


Fans of previous books in the series, Golden Domes and Silver Lanterns about colors, Crescent Moons and Pointed Minarets about shapes, and One Sun and Countless Stars about numbers