NIGHT RIDE TO NANNA’S

Coziness is what this picture-book journey is all about: after supper and a quick wash, Amy puts on her pajamas and climbs into the car for the trip to Grandma’s. Baby Sam soon falls asleep in his car seat, but as the travelers leave tall city buildings behind for more softly lit suburban neighborhoods, Amy watches the flower market go by, waves to passing bus riders, and looks for familiar landmarks. “And then comes the bridge with all its little lights! The lights are in the water too, as if the river were full of sparklers.” In Sutcliffe’s velvety paintings, twilight becomes darkness beneath a scattering of stars, then warms to comfortable, golden tones as the journey ends with welcoming hugs and smiles, and for Amy a snug bed “that’s always ready for her.” Pure “snuggle down” reading, even for stay-at-homes, filled with the comforting familiarity that makes for lifetime memories. And a promising debut for the illustrator. (Picture book. 5-7)