NOBODY LIKES BEDTIME

How do you feel about bedtime?

A Black child breaks the fourth wall to list six reasons why going to sleep is no fun; meanwhile, a group of monster friends interrupt to explain why sleeping is beneficial for our bodies and health. “First: Bedtime is too early!” Second, bedtime routines are dull. Third, nighttime is frightening. Fourth, there is too much to do! Fifth, lying very still is a very difficult task, and sixth, fun cannot happen while you’re sleeping. However, as the monsters note, sleep gives us the energy we need to climb trees, bedtime routines include stories and hugs, monsters can be found under the bed at night (and some of them are downright adorable), bodies and brains need rest to perform well, and sleeping is when we get to dream. Finally, the child concedes that nobody likes bedtime—because everyone loves bedtime. Kilpatrick’s text is funny, like when the child acknowledges that one of their monster pals may have a point yet is quick to add, “Let’s not get distracted. Moving on!” Blanco’s cartoon illustrations are rich and colorful; the artist smartly devotes several pages to a dream sequence. In addition to curbing fears of the dark, this creative entry in the field of bedtime books also encourages kids to let others share their opinions. (This book was reviewed digitally.)

An inspired bedtime tale laced with a wise lesson about listening to advice from friends.