We Carry the Sun

In this story of “how we reached into the sky/ and carried the sun home,” Newbery Medalist Keller highlights the chain of insights that have led to accessible solar energy technology. Initial lines trace humans using the sun’s energy for warmth until “we begin to believe/ the sun is not enough,” and communities turn to coal, “poisoning our planet.” Following pages highlight innovators harnessing the sun’s energy across time—a teacher using a solar mirror to power a steam engine, a parent warming her baby’s bath in the sun, and more, each person advancing the science one step further. Short, telegraphic lines capture with force the powers keeping renewable energy from supplanting fossil fuels: “Oil companies prey/ on human weakness/ and pay politicians.” Boldly outlined full-bleed portraits of inventors and technology by Wada (I Am Wind) represent brilliant sunlight, incorporating golden rays, halos, and sunspots. More than a resource about the history of solar energy, it’s also a look at stepwise progress made by standing on the shoulders of those who have come before. Characters are represented with various skin tones. An author’s note and solar energy timeline conclude. Ages 7–10. Author’s agent: Faye Bender, Book Group. Illustrator’s agent: Amy Tompkins, Transatlantic Agency. (June)