JUST ONE MORE SLEEP

In this latest collaboration from actor and author Curtis and illustrator Cornell, a child finds ways to pass the time.

“It’s just one more sleep” until “I blow out candles on my birthday cake,” the young narrator informs us. But after that wonderful day, the gap-toothed, curly-haired, brown-skinned child will have to wait an entire year for the next birthday. Luckily, there are many other special days to enjoy and anticipate in the meantime. Lilting, rhyming verse accompanied by sprawling, upbeat illustrations follows the unnamed protagonist and a boisterous, multiracial, interfaith family through a year of holidays and events. The child eagerly takes part in everything from dancing in a dragon mask on Chinese New Year and making red heart valentines to finding Easter eggs, listening to the Passover story, lighting Hanukkah candles, opening Christmas presents, and dressing up for Kwanzaa. Finally, it’s New Year! Basking in Mom’s pride, the child has learned patience—and feels quite pleased with that accomplishment. The refrain “just one more sleep”—a common phrase that helps children understand the concept of today and tomorrow—may be slightly confusing here. The book jumps from holiday to holiday, though there are in fact many sleeps between, for instance, the first day of school and Halloween. But no matter: Young readers will know their own special times and relate to this joyful child and loving family.

Charming family fun.