The Light Inside

Creatures of the night have troubles of their own in this wordless children’s debut from cartoonist Misdea. In paneled vignettes, a little humanoid figure with a round jack-o’-lantern head depends on a beloved purple stuffed mouse to ward off the frightening dreamlike figures that seem suspended over the bed after lights-out. When a strong wind blows the mouse away, and a stylized black cat runs off with it, the child goes on an epic pursuit through a nocturnal landscape peopled by the creatures of their dream. Crisp line drawings and striking, moody gray tones lend a satisfying frisson of eeriness to the dramatic stakes. Centering a reluctant but persevering protagonist facing their nightmares, it’s a portrait of empathy, independence, and bravery that champions the literal and figurative light within. Ages 3–7. (Aug.)