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Dewdney’s authorial debut is an uproariously funny tale detailing the true events that occur between lights out and when a wee one actually falls asleep. Feeling bereft after his mother leaves the room, little Llama soon calls down for a drink of water. What happens between that moment and his mom’s arrival is a treat for seasoned parents and a eureka moment for young readers. With unerring accuracy, Dewdney perfectly captures the existential, pint-sized angst little ones experience after they are tucked in for the night. With dead-on comic timing, Dewdney’s snappy verses convey the juxtaposition of little Llama’s escalating anxiety and Mama’s last minute efforts to get something done before heading back up to the room. The full-color, full-bleed illustrations are an intrinsic part of why this tale works so well. The combination of little Llama’s expressions with the ever-darkening hues expertly capture his growing concerns. When Llama’s worries reach their climactic peak, Mama’s sensible but sensitive response soothes both her ruffled baby and young readers alike. Dewdney’s tale is bound to become a comical classic oft-requested at bedtime. (Picture book. 3-7)
