This Little Light of Mine

Illustrated by Sawyer Cloud. Magic Cat Publishing, 2024. 32 pages. $18.99/hardcover or eBook. Recommended for ages 3–6.

The song “This Little Light of Mine” is familiar to many the world over. The exact origin and age of the song is unclear, but it is often thought of as an African American spiritual. In the early twentieth century, the title phrase showed up in a book of poetry, and later with the full lyrics in children’s hymnals. In the 1950s and ’60s, it was one of the many songs that with modified lyrics helped drive the Civil Rights Movement. Today it continues to be popular among Quakers, who feel aligned with the message that there is a light shining within every person. It is often taught to young Friends by older Friends who learned it when they were young.

This Little Light of Mine is a graphical adaptation of the song and includes bright and colorful artwork to support the lyrics of the tune. Parents will appreciate the messages of inclusion and empowerment—showing young readers that “they have the power to brighten the world.” The colorful illustrations were digitally created by Sawyer Cloud, a freelance artist living in Madagascar. They depict children and adults being kind and encouraging to one another. Since the song’s birth, people have been adapting the lyrics to fit any occasion and likely will continue to do so.

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Vickie LeCroy is a retired educator and lives near Nashville, Tenn. She is a mother and grandmother.