Grimes, Nikki. Bedtime for Sweet Creatures. Sourcebooks Jabberwocky, 2020. 978-1-492-63832-2. Unpaged. $17.99. PreK-Grade 2.

This endearing bedtime story follows a mother and toddler through a bedtime routine that will be all too familiar to families with young children. What makes it unique, however, is the way in which the child’s stalling tactics are compared to animals in the jungle. For instance, the child roars like a lion for the mother to check under the bed for monsters, clings to the mother like a koala for one last kiss, and emerges from bed like a sly wolf in order to fill a glass of water. The illustrations add to the allure, combining realistic human figures with fantastical jungle creatures. This fresh twist on the often documented struggles of putting young children to bed will be sure to delight parents and children alike.

THOUGHTS: I think this title would make the sweetest bedtime story and/or read aloud. It could also be used in an educational setting, as it contains an abundance of similes and metaphors. After hearing the story, perhaps students could write their own tales in which they compare themselves to jungle animals using these figures of speech. This is an excellent choice for any library serving young children.

Picture Book          Julie Ritter, PSLA Member