Dark Was the Night

Reach for this book when your child feels discouraged by a physical limitation or when they are questioning how their small actions could ever matter in the vast world. Dark Was the Night tells the moving story of Blind Willie Johnson, a man who transformed a childhood cigar box into a legendary musical legacy. It is a profound exploration of resilience, creativity, and the power of the human spirit to overcome poverty and disability. Through expressive watercolor illustrations, the story follows Willie from his humble beginnings to the incredible moment his music was launched into deep space on the Voyager I Golden Record. While it addresses difficult themes like blindness and financial hardship, it remains deeply hopeful and age-appropriate for elementary-aged children. It is a beautiful choice for parents who want to foster a sense of wonder about the universe and a respect for the diverse voices that define our history.