Every night, mysterious lights appear in Sandy’s room, and she uses them to create magical and otherworldly creatures that romp playfully with her until she nods off. Her dreamy nocturnal world contrasts sharply with the tight-lipped private school she attends during the day, full of unsympathetic classmates and harsh teachers. One day Morfie, a pale-skinned girl with luminous purple hair, appears in the schoolyard. Morfie gushes over Sandy’s art and the two become instant friends, but eventually Sandy realizes that Morfie’s not who she seems.
Creative types will identify with the themes of this story. Influenced by her childhood experiences, Lorena Alvarez’s art brims with incandescence and vibrant color—and they paint a world unlike any you’ve ever imagined. Her color palettes are extremely thoughtful, engaging and part of what makes us keen to linger in the extraordinary worlds she’s crafted. Her art feels so personal. Lorena is one to watch—we’re looking forward to many more works from this amazing talent.
Nightlights is written and illustrated by Lorena Alvarez and published by Flying Eye Books.