IF ANIMALS KISSED GOOD NIGHT
From the If Animals series
by Ann Whitford Paul & illustrated by David Walker
Paul’s latest bedtime book proves satisfyingly soporific. In gentle rhymes, she imagines how the real versions of a bedroom menagerie might kiss goodnight: “Peacock and chick / would spin a fan dance / and kiss with a kickity / high-stepping prance.” Python kisses involve twisting around, while seal kisses are underwater affairs with much bubble accompaniment. Sloth and her cub make several appearances, as their slow goodnight kiss lasts longer than anyone else’s. While a family triad appears only once, both moms and dads dole out the smooches. Throughout, readers are introduced to the terms for animal babies and to the distinctive physical features that are the hallmark of each creature. Walker’s adorable, soft-hued animals populate simply drawn habitats with the bare minimum of detail—perfect for capturing the attention of the littlest listeners. The imaginative possibilities alone make this one stand out from the glut of sickly sweet bedtime books. Sure to send readers off to a gentle goodnight . . . after a kiss, of course. (Picture book. 2-6)