Monsters in the Moonlight; A Yalda Night Adventure

By Sina Merabian

Yalda Night is an ancient Persian celebration that occurs on the Winter Solstice. It is a celebration of darkness being defeated by light. Choori and Shooli are young divs (malevolent supernatural beings) heading out on their first Yalda Night to cause trouble and ruin families celebrations. When they join a family and try to ruin the night they only find that nothing can do that as long as loved ones are together.

This adorably illustrated picture book would need some explanation of this Persian holiday for those who may not know about it. It could also be an opportunity to introduce other cultural celebrations from around the world. I recommend this book as and extra purchase for elementary libraries that are interested in holidays and celebrations around the world.