Blackout

Blackout (2011), written and illustrated by John Rocco, follows a family living in a bustling city who experience a sudden power outage one summer evening. As the lights go out, the family notices that the familiar sights and sounds of their apartment and neighborhood change dramatically. Streets, stores, and homes all become quiet and dark, prompting neighbors to step outside and check on one another. The children explore the city in new ways, discovering activities they had not considered while electricity powered their routines. Families gather, play, and share experiences in candlelight. Throughout the night, the city transforms into a place of spontaneous connection and exploration. The narrative traces the events of this blackout, showing how people navigate the unfamiliar circumstances and interact in the temporary absence of power.