TIME TO SAY GOODNIGHT

Forest animal moms tell their little ones that it’s time to say goodnight in this rhyming bedtime treat. “Tiny mouse, the day is done. / Stop your scurrying, little one. / No more squeaking, not one peep. / Close your eyes now, go to sleep!” From the smallest bunny, bird and squirrel, to the largest deer and bear, the animals must stop what they are doing and settle in for the night—except for the owl, that is. Two beautiful double-page spreads wordlessly depict parents and children snuggling in, whether it’s to a nest, den or burrow. But in a somewhat jarring finale, the animals leave their cozy beds to address the reader directly with a pointed reminder that it’s time for sleep. Chapman’s illustrations are filled with muted colors and soft shapes, helping to set the stage for bedtime. Her sweetly expressive forest animals will be a surefire winner with children and parents alike. The progression of both text and pictures from busy activity to settling down will give youngsters an example to follow. (Picture book. 2-6)