This companion tale to the team’s What Does My Teddy Bear Do All Day? (2004) offers toddlers a peek at the nighttime antics of their favorite stuffed animals. Like his human companion, teddy bear has a difficult time getting to sleep. Together child and bear engage in covert excursions through the house, last minute runs to the potty and rowdy jumping sessions on the bed before feigning sleep when mom returns to the room. As the girl drifts off to sleep, she contemplates what her bear does during the evening hours. She considers elaborate scenarios involving midnight baths, valiant battles with creepy shadows and devoted watchfulness. When morning comes, the child knows she must repay the same faithful care of her now-slumbering bear. Hächler’s fanciful tale strikes the right balance of sweetness and silliness. Müller uses blurred lines, and darkening hues in her engaging illustrations effectively convey the muted quality of twilight. The inclusion of an energetic mouse pair in nearly every illustration adds a touch of whimsy to the pictures. (Picture book. 3-6)
