Review: Babalu Shadow Books

Looking for a fun twist on bedtime? Babalu offers three very cool Shadow Books, that tell a story with corresponding shadows created by the book. I'm often thinking of how innovative the toys are these days, and this is definitely something I would have LOVED as a kid. Plus, as a parent, I'm lousy at creating shadow figures on my own, so it's great that they did it for me!

As the mother of two little gals, one of whom is currently infatuated with all things fairies or princesses we got the "Forest Fairies" Shadow Book. They also offer a "Camping Out" Shadow Book, and a "Time for Bed - Secret of Shadows" Shadow Book.

Click on "Read More" for the full review of our Forest Fairies Shadow Book.

Story ****: Each page covers a different fairy and their respective animal that they watch over. The animal is the die cut shadow. It's all very sweet and imaginative.

Illustrations/Shadows ****: The visuals are very whimsical and sweet, very fitting of the fairies and their world. The die cuts are really well done, the shadows are simple and clear.

Materials/Durability ***: Overall, it's a very well made book. The top opens up to be the "stage", with the pages laying on the bottom. Each page flips on a spiral binding. There are four things that could make it a little better, but are not something that would keep me from buying it.

First, the flash light that comes with it is a fun toy in and of itself. However, you have to keep your thumb on it to keep it on. It would be better if you could click it and it stayed on. Also, it would be nice if there were some sort of holder or pocket to keep it attached to the book.

Second, you have to hold each page up to do the shadow, it would be nice if there was a "stand" that you could utilize to prop the page up on its own.

Third, the top "stage" could be a little bigger, this would make the whole book bigger, but I wouldn't mind. Currently it's 8" x 8".

Fourth, it would be super cool if the writing was glow-in-the-dark. It would also make for an easier read if you are doing it in the dark vs. having to shine the small flash light on the pages.

Price ****: They are $14.95, which is great for what it is in my opinion. There are 24 pages.

Overall *** 1/2: These are really fun and unique. My gal loves shining the light to create the shadows. It makes for a more interactive bedtime and is just really sweet.