Review: A Bright Light in Buenos Aires
A Bright Light in Buenos Aires
by Santiago Nader, illustrated by Paula Wegman
Kalaniot Books, 2024
Category: Picture Books
Reviewer: Shirley Reva Vernick
Buy at Bookshop.org
In Buenos Aires, Dani is a regular boy leading a regular life, with one exception: everywhere he goes, a large, bright light follows him. The light can be helpful (like when the electricity goes out) or annoying (like when it blocks the Shabbat candles’ light). Dani wants to be like the other kids, and he’s afraid no one will come to his birthday party because he’s so different. His classmates do come, but his light causes trouble during an impromptu soccer game – Dani is upset! His mom helps him see that his light is the light of his soul, a gift from God that makes him special, a gift he should share with others. Dani finds a way to temporarily share bits of the light with his friends, helping them understand how uniquely remarkable they each are. In the end, Dani is happy with his light, knowing that he’s perfect the way he is. The book includes backmatter on Jewish life in Argentina, a Jewish take on the significance of birthdays, and a glossary.
This story is a highly relatable metaphor about the universal feeling of being different, of wanting to belong. It gently encourages self-acceptance by showing how our differences are actually blessings that should be shared in the world. The plot includes plenty of action to engage young readers, and the pacing builds suspense that culminates in a rewarding ending. The locale is seamlessly portrayed through occasional Spanish words and references to Argentinian foods and pastimes.
In Buenos Aires, Dani is a regular boy leading a regular life, with one exception: everywhere he goes, a large, bright light follows him. The light can be helpful (like when the electricity goes out) or annoying (like when it blocks the Shabbat candles’ light). Dani wants to be like the other kids, and he’s afraid no one will come to his birthday party because he’s so different. His classmates do come, but his light causes trouble during an impromptu soccer game – Dani is upset! His mom helps him see that his light is the light of his soul, a gift from God that makes him special, a gift he should share with others. Dani finds a way to temporarily share bits of the light with his friends, helping them understand how uniquely remarkable they each are. In the end, Dani is happy with his light, knowing that he’s perfect the way he is. The book includes backmatter on Jewish life in Argentina, a Jewish take on the significance of birthdays, and a glossary.
This story is a highly relatable metaphor about the universal feeling of being different, of wanting to belong. It gently encourages self-acceptance by showing how our differences are actually blessings that should be shared in the world. The plot includes plenty of action to engage young readers, and the pacing builds suspense that culminates in a rewarding ending. The locale is seamlessly portrayed through occasional Spanish words and references to Argentinian foods and pastimes.
A Bright Light in Buenos Aires is filled with Judaism, from the Jewish
value of respecting differences (adam yehidi nivrah), to Shabbat
celebrations at home and synagogue, to the strategically placed Star of
David pendant or kippah. At the same time, the plot and theme will also
be of interest to secular audiences.
The illustrations bring this book to an even higher level. Filled with connections to both Argentinian and Jewish life, the pictures will transport readers to a distinctive community in South America. The often whimsical and always detailed art features movement, diverse characters, animals, and lush colors. Warmly endorsed for home, school and library.
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