Three Great Bedtime Stories

The perfect bedtime story lineup includes a touch of humor, a bit of whimsy, and wraps up with peace and comfort. The following three picture books are ideal for gradually building up to a relaxing bedtime for the 2-6 set.

The Bunnies Are Not in Their Beds by Marisabina Russo is a delightful back and forth story between what's happening in the bunnies' room and what the parents are doing. The parents put the bunnies to sleep only to hear noises coming from their room -- first it is train tracks being contstructed, then they are playing with trains, then playing cowboys, and eventually they even put together a marching band. In the end, the parents think they've finally had success and decide they can go to sleep themselves. The bunnies decide they can play all night now, but end up falling asleep on the couch. It's fun for kids to learn what the bunnies are up to next and how the parents respond. Incidentally, I have enjoyed many of Russo's other books, too, especially Under the Table.


Bedtime for Mommy, written by Amy Krouse Rosenthal and illustrated by LeUyen Pham, is a bedtime role reversal. (One of my previous reviews, Bedtime for Sally, is also a bedtime role reversal but is done very differently.) In this book, the daughter tells the mommy it's time for bed. The mommy then proceeds to make the same protestations ("Five more minutes?") and requests (glass of water, more than one story, door being opened just the right amount) that a child typically does. Most young children will delight in the idea of putting a parent to bed. Lots of giggles are guaranteed. Perhaps there is a boy version of this out there somewhere -- this one just happens to be a girl and mommy, but the daddy appears at the end as the next to be put to bed.



Good Night Mr. Night was written and illustrated by Dan Yaccarino. He's also the creator of the Oswald character that currently appears on Nick Jr. He's written several books we've enjoyed that I hope to review. Mr. Night wakes up every night as the sun goes down. He is covered with beautiful stars. This story is extremely simple and timeless. As Mr. Night closes the flowers, quiets the animals and closes their eyes, and calms the sea, a feeling of peace gently settles over the reader. It's great for settling down and preparing for rest. Hmmm...maybe I should read it the next time I can't get to sleep.