FIVE LITTLE MONKEYS READING IN BED

Christelow’s mischief-making monkey siblings return to the bed for their eighth Mama-frustrating adventure.

“When the five little monkeys are ready for bed, / their Mama reads stories, then kisses each head. / ‘It’s bedtime for Monkeys! Now turn out the light.’ ‘Oh, Mama! Oh, PLEASE! One more story tonight!’ ” But Mama is tired. She wishes them goodnight, but the light doesn’t go out. Those five little monkeys decide to read to themselves. When their sad story of a lost pup ends happily, they whoop and holler until Mama breaks in. “Mama raises an eyebrow. ‘What was it I said? / Lights out! Sweet dreams! / No more reading in bed!’ ” Have those five little monkeys ever minded? A scary book makes them scream. Mama returns. A funny book makes them laugh. Mama returns. When they’re finally drifting off, strange noises come from down the hall. It’s tired Mama reading in her bed, and it’s their turn to admonish her. Christelow’s silly simians are just as bouncy as they ever were. If their histrionics are a bit over the top from a parental point of view, the target audience won't care and might just join in. The author’s watercolor illustrations are solid as ever.

Reading promotion at its best, with a little bit of bad behavior to spice things up. (Picture book. 3-7)