A flashlight includes a core having first and second surfaces, a side edge portion, and proximal and distal ends; along with first, second and third cavities. Light generating components include a light emitter in the first cavity, a switch in the second cavity and a battery disposed in the third cavity. A ribbon cable electrically couples the switch and battery. A first sheet-like stiffener overlays the first surface of the core. A first cover sheet overlays the first sheet-like stiffener to sandwich the sheet like stiffener between the first surface of the core and the first cover sheet. A second cover sheet overlays the second surface of the core. The first and second cover sheet members are joined together to form a flexible casing having an interior cavity. The core stiffener and light generating components are disposed within the interior cavity.