GOOD NIGHT, SLEEP TIGHT, LITTLE BUNNIES

The emergence of the moon and stars heralds sleepy time for babies of all types. From grassy meadows to desert lands, from swaying treetops to the deepest oceans, youngsters from a diverse array of species are lovingly tucked into their beds. Apperley’s perky rhymes describe in the simplest of terms the preferred places of repose for the various creatures; elephants snooze in tall grasses, ducklings take shelter in the reeds, while a young penguin chick nestles close to dad in the icy snow. After each baby’s bedtime ritual is described, they are sent off to sleep with the gentle refrain, “Good night, sleep tight, / little penguin” (camel, monkey, etc). Apperley’s brightly colored, full-bleed illustrations portray impossibly cute baby animals and their devoted parents. The large, rounded figures are eminently appealing to younger children. Happy faces abound on all the creatures, contributing to the almost tangible sense of security and comfort that emanates from the cozy pictures. The final spread ties the tale neatly together, depicting a human child snuggled up under her covers, surrounded by her stuffed animals—which of course resemble the animals featured in the rhymes. A sweet tale to serenade small fry to sleep. (Picture book. 2-5)