The quiet, almost hypnotic text of this bedtime read-aloud is lovely and lyrical. But what makes this an extraordinary book, and one that toddlers will pick up even during the daytime, is the art. Layers of colors and textures provide interest: cut paper waves sport thick, azure gouache combed over a mottled aquamarine background, this against a slate blue sky—dominated by an enormous whale that occupies the double-page spread top to bot tom, left to right. The dozing leviathan smiles benignly as it dreams sweet dreams—possibly of the hearts and flowers that tattoo its skin. In their play ful, dreamy way, the computer-manipulated illustrations are reminiscent of Stephen Gammell’s illustrations for Will’s Mammoth (Martin, 1989). 2008 White Ravens, 2008 Shortlist for the British Book Design and Production Awards, 2010 Best Before Bed Read Aloud ( P&C Magazine ). lmp

Originally published as Zzzzz: A Book of Sleep by Meadowside Children’s Books Great Britain, in 2007.

When the sky grows dark
and the moon glows bright,
everyone goes to sleep . . .
except for the watchful owl!

With a spare, soothing text and beautifully rich and textured illustrations of a starry night, this is the perfect “book of sleep.” Join the owl on his moonlit journey as he watches all the other animals settle in for the night: some sleep standing up, while some sleep on the move! Some sleep peacefully alone, while others sleep all together, huddled close.

Il Sung Na makes his American debut with this gorgeous bedtime offering. While each animal rests in its own special way, little ones will also drift off to a cozy sleep.