WAKE-UP KISSES

As the sun dips below the horizon, some animals are just beginning to stir and wake to face the busy night ahead. “ ‘Wake up!’ hoots Owl. ‘T’wit, t’woo! Open your eyes! There’s lots to do.’ ” The bats and flying squirrels join the owls to swoop through the dark night. The field mice rise to a breakfast of berries while the baby raccoons plan a raid on nearby garbage cans. The night is filled with the sounds of the tree frogs’ song. “ ‘Croak! Croak!’ Tree Frog sings. ‘Let’s get busy doing things!’ ” As the children are snuggling into bed, these animals are just beginning their day. Overly dark drawings in what could be pastels or colored pencil overwhelm the story, making this an impossible choice for group reading. A very bright cover in pinks and greens gives no indication of the somber illustrations within. The night does not seem that exciting—just dark. (Picture book. 3-6)