The Darkest Dark

The Darkest Dark

book

2016, Juvenile Fiction

WISE
94%

WISE Score

A stunningly illustrated look at how a future astronaut conquered his fear of the night by looking at the stars.

Where to Read

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Screenwise Verdict

This is a modern classic. It manages to be a 'message book' about overcoming fear without feeling like a lecture, largely because the illustrations are so insanely good.

If you have a kid who is currently negotiating for 'just one more light on' at bedtime, this is the move. It treats their fear with respect but offers a massive, star-filled exit ramp.

Age Fit

Best for ages 3 to 8. It hits that sweet spot where kids are starting to develop 'monsters in the closet' fears but are also becoming obsessed with how the world (and space) actually works.

WISE Breakdown
Wholesome
95

It models a healthy family dynamic and a constructive way to process childhood anxiety without being preachy or saccharine.

Imaginative
92

The Fan brothers' illustrations are top-tier, turning a bedroom into a cinematic lunar landscape that actually rewards staring at the pages.

Safe
100

It's a picture book about an astronaut. No surprise triggers, no questionable content, just pure bedtime-appropriate storytelling.

Enriching
94

Combines a relatable emotional struggle with actual historical context (the 1969 moon landing) and a growth-mindset message from a real-life hero.

Parent Info

Why It Might Be Great

  • Fan brothers' art is the real deal—it's moody, detailed, and feels much more high-end than your average primary-colored picture book.
  • Authentic backstory gives it weight; knowing this is based on the actual childhood of astronaut Chris Hadfield makes the 'dream big' message feel earned.
  • Reframes fear from something to be avoided into something that is a necessary part of the vast, beautiful universe.
  • Historical tie-in introduces the 1969 Apollo 11 landing in a way that feels personal rather than like a history lecture.

What to Watch For

  • The 'aliens' Chris imagines in the dark are drawn with some detail—they aren't terrifying, but very sensitive kids might find the initial 'dark' pages a bit too effective at setting the mood.
  • It’s a quiet, contemplative book; if your kid only wants high-octane slapstick, this might be a 'sit-still-and-listen' challenge.

Conversation Starters

  • "Why do you think the 'darkest dark' of space didn't feel as scary to Chris as the dark in his room?"
  • "Chris had to practice being brave just like he practiced his astronaut moves. What's something you're practicing being brave for?"
  • "If you could go anywhere in a rocket ship, where would you want to explore first?"

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