The city dark A search for night on a planet that never sleeps

The dark of night (or, more specifically, the dark of the night sky) is something we think we know. But do we? As a result of nighttime light pollution, especially in major urban centers, the night sky we see is increasingly a shadow of its true nature, a notion expertly explored in this documentary. Losing our awareness of the night sky's inherent character has wide-ranging implications on everything from the search for killer asteroids to the migratory habits of birds to possibly even human health. There's also the increasing disconnection from our spiritual and cultural roots, which often include creation myths and beliefs involving the lights in the sky that we're ever less able to see. Yet solutions to this growing problem are possible if we are willing to implement them, for example, using outdoor lighting in different ways. VERDICT This film offers a clear, concise, well-documented exploration of a seldom-considered issue while simultaneously proposing answers to help offset it. Those concerned about the environment, wildlife, human health, and our vanishing cultural heritage will find The City Dark an enlightening view.-Brent Marchant, Chicago (c) Copyright 2012. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.