Night Walk, written and illustrated by Jason Cockcroft. Candlewick Press, Penguin Random House. 2025. $24.99 ages 4 and up

"Remember how Grandma loved the 
woods? She'd sit and watch the moths
flutter by. Listen, can you hear the 
hedgehog in the grass? 

Yes! Grandma loved hedgehogs. 
Maybe this was Grandma's favorite place."

While sharing their grief over losing Grandma, a boy and his grandpa leave home one dark, early morning to take the same walk that Grandma loved. They are well-prepared for their trek, with backpacks, flashlights, and a snack. As they go, the two share memories of previous walks and all those things that tickled Grandma's fancy along the way. 

At each stop, the boy has a concern for knowing exactly which place was her favorite. Grandpa is reassuring, and they continue to move forward. 

"Do you know
where we are now? 

Are we there?
Really? Is this 
Grandma's favorite 
place? 

Yes, this is it."

I repeat, what wonder do we find in nature when we are on the lookout for it?  

I appreciate the quiet setting, the thoughtfulness, the memories shared, and the joy found in being together. Mr. Cockcroft's outstanding mixed-media artwork places readers in the natural beauty that surrounds the two as they walk together, and offers hints of light in the early morning. The final spreads are a perfect reminder of Grandma, with their brilliant light and beauty. Don't miss the telling endpapers!