The Sun Thief Review: Squirrel and Bird Return to Explain Why Summer Days Get Shorter

A few weeks ago, the sun was still out at bedtime. Now Squirrel is brushing his teeth in the dark. There can only be one explanation: a sun thief! The Sun Thief brings back the heroes of the bestselling The Leaf Thief for a summer story about why the days grow longer and then shorter again.

This review looks at how the sequel compares and who it's for.

Who it's for

• Fans of The Leaf Thief who want more of Squirrel and Bird.
• Children aged about 3 to 7.
• Parents fielding the question "why is it still light at bedtime?", or the reverse.
• Teachers covering seasons, the sun and day length.

What we liked

• The same winning formula. Squirrel jumps to a dramatic conclusion; Bird calmly sets him straight. It's as funny the second time.
• A question every child asks. Changing daylight at bedtime puzzles children, and the story gives a clear, friendly answer.
• Real science, lightly handled. Bonus pages explain why the length of days changes through the year.
• Reassurance about change. Like the first book, it shows that changes in the world can be worrying and can also be understood.
• Bright summer artwork. Nicola Slater's illustrations swap autumn gold for warm summer light.
• Good for end of summer. It suits the weeks when evenings draw in and school approaches.
• Classroom-friendly size. The large format shows well to a group.
• Stands alone. You don't need the first book to follow it.

What could be better

• Familiar structure. Readers who know The Leaf Thief will see the pattern coming. For most children, that's part of the pleasure.
• The science is an introduction. The explanation of day length is simple; curious older children will want more detail.
• Seasonal timing. It lands best in mid to late summer.
• Loud and lively. Squirrel's exclamations make it an energetic read, not a sleepy one.
• Large hardcover. It needs a tall shelf.

Key details explained

• Companion book: a new story with the same characters, not a continuation you must read in order.
• Day length: the number of daylight hours, which peaks in early summer and then shrinks.
• Bonus material: short factual pages after the story.
• Ages 4 and up: works as a read-aloud for preschoolers and a read-alone for early grades.

Tips for getting the most out of it

1. Read it at bedtime in late summer, when the change in light is easy to notice.
2. Note the time of sunset once a week and watch it move.
3. Read it alongside The Leaf Thief and compare what Squirrel learns.
4. Let your child be Bird and explain the answer back to you.
5. Use a lamp and a ball to show how the Earth and sun make day and night.

Frequently asked questions

Q: Do I need to read The Leaf Thief first? No, though children who know it will enjoy seeing the characters again.

Q: What does it teach? How and why daylight hours change over the summer.

Q: Is it funny? Yes. The humor is the same gentle, character-driven comedy as the original.

Q: What ages is it for? Around 4 and up, with younger children enjoying it read aloud.

Should you buy it?

For families who loved The Leaf Thief, this is an easy purchase, and it earns its place by answering a question children really do ask. It's bright, funny and sneaks in some astronomy. A fine summer read-aloud and a natural gift alongside the first book.

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