A myriad of young exotic animals end their day and rest their sleepy eyes in this rhythmic bedtime read. Each page offers an abundance of lavish color—the savanna terrain and friendly-faced, yet life-like animals drawn with vivid oil pastels. “The sun paints the sky / a warm, glowing red. / It’s time to stop playing, / it’s time for bed.” Among others, a baby hippo cuddles close to mom; leopard cubs snuggle together; and wee porcupines curl up in a spiky ball. They are all safe and sound, warm and cozy, as the sun dips below the horizon. Mischievous monkeys have a last frolic and an elephant rumbles a deep lullaby. Each young creature begins its slumber as an inky purple envelops the night and it’s time for dreaming. A sensory treat all around, but the flowing cadence of the rhyming couplets will lull young sleepyheads pleasantly into la-la land. (Picture book. 2-5)
