'A powerful modern fable, The King who banned the dark is sure to become a classic, which, with its political undertones, will be read, shared and loved on many levels'
-- It's All About Stories
'A timeless tale of courage, consequences and unexpected wonder with quirky, lively illustrations. An illuminating tale of power, rebellion, darkness and light'
-- Children's Books Ireland
'The illustrations and words by Emily Haworth-Booth are exquisite and it isn't a surprise it has been nominated for so many prizes. This is a really clever, imaginative and nuanced book that you will definitely be able to use across the primary age range'
-- The Values Bookshelf
'This is sophisticated and compelling storytelling about the machinations of politics and manipulating the populace ... The illustrations provide a feast for the eyes complementing the story with comical and delightful touches'
* Armadillo Magazine *
'What's beautiful about this modern fable is not just the atmospheric black, white and yellow artwork by Emily Haworth-Booth, but the many levels at which the story operates. There's the obvious topic of a fear of the dark, but it also sends a subtle message about power, revolution and the balance and light and shade in life.'
* Books with Baby *
'Definitely a book 'de nos jours!'
-- Ann Lazim * Centre for Literacy in Primary Education *
'A beautifully illustrated fable for our times'
* Daily Express *
'It's not often that you get a children's picture book that perfectly sums up prevailing social and political attitudes, how power works to corrupt, and how easy it is to get worked up over nothing. This is a brilliant book, which does not need to be read as political satire'
* Early Years Educator Magazine *
'A timeless tale of courage, consequences and unexpected wonder with quirky, lively illustrations'
* INIS 2018-19 Reading Guide *
'A really thought-provoking book with clever use of colour'
* Toppsta Reading Record *
'This is a gorgeous picture book and its only possible downside is that your kids, like mine, might start banning things willy-nilly'
-- Robyn Wilder * The Pool *
'A truly ingenious and unique tale on the manipulation of power, revolution and how we need the dark to appreciate the light'
* The Little Book Society *
'A thought-provoking picture book ... Haworth-Booth's pencil-shaded artwork is pleasing, while her text warns gently but firmly against responding too readily to fear'
-- Imogen Russell Williams * The Guardian *
'An engaging read for young readers ...The predominantly yellow, black and white colour palette is perfect for spotlighting the messages of the story, whether literal or figurative, and given the depth of the story, one that spans many age groups'
* The Bottom Shelf *
'A truly delightful new picture book talent brings us a sweet fairy tale, in charming, retro black-and-yellow drawings...'
-- Nicolette Jones * Sunday Times *
'A modern fairy-tale, akin to The Emperor's New Clothes, told with sophistication and paired with extraordinary beautiful illustrations in monotones, juxtaposed with vibrant yellow'
* Space on the Bookshelf *
'Talented writer-illustrator Emily Haworth-Booth uses just three colours to paint this powerful picture of fear and hope, and the moral of the story will stay with you long after the lights get switched back on'
-- Nancy Groves * HuffPost UK *
'A clever and beautiful story'
* Parents in Touch *
'An up-to-the-minute picture book that deals with an age-old fear in a very modern way'
* Minerva Reads *
'A clever, engaging story which encourages readers to think about the importance of nighttime in our lives and also how power might be used, abused or resisted.'
* Love my Books *
'A witty picture-book with a lot of contemporary relevance, which skewers government propaganda and the misuse of power'
* Little Rebels Children's Book Award *
'This book works on two levels: first of all, as a great story, and secondly, as an interesting modern fable'
* Juno Magazine *
'A charming modern fable'
* Absolutely Mama *
'This debut is wonderfully political thought-provoking...A brilliant story of the abuse of power the strength of protest. Perfect for schools'
* Rhino Reads *
'A truly fresh and formidable debut by Emily Haworth-Booth. This is an outstanding first offering from the multi-faceted author/illustrator, undoubtedly a new name to keep an eye on'
* Picture Books Blogger *
