THE BUNNIES ARE NOT IN THEIR BEDS

Russo’s latest will have the parents of young children shaking their heads and smiling ruefully—and hoping to keep their tots in a crib. Mama and Daddy tuck in their triplets and go downstairs to unwind. But just when all is quiet, noises come from upstairs: “Sounds like the bunnies are not in their beds.” Each exasperating foray to get them back into bed reveals yet another toy out, and the children busily engaged in pretend play. From trains and cowboys to cars and musical instruments, the bunnies are determined to keep on playing. Meanwhile, their parents have read, written their letters, had some cake and tea and gotten into bed themselves. This is just what the children were waiting for—now they have the run of the house. When sleep finally finds them, they are snuggled on the couch together. Russo’s gouache artwork is brightly colored and pleasingly simple—long on homey details and facial expressions. Sure to spark laughter from both generations, this will find an audience with parents and children alike—and hopefully will not spark too much copycat behavior. (Picture book. 3-7)