LITTLE RABBIT GOES TO SLEEP

The little rabbit tries to go to sleep—he counts mosquitoes (one) and the feet of mice scurrying in the rafters (it can't be done: too many) and tries to ignore the scary dark; but finally he creeps down to the porch, where Grandpa's rocking chair is creaking. Then, while the old rabbit cuddles the younger one in his lap, they chat comfortably about stars, the rising moon, and chirping crickets, until the night is no longer scary and Grandpa can tuck the little one in, to snore ``as softly as one little mosquito.'' Johnston's deftly phrased text is genial and unusually engaging, while Stevenson captures the summer night in peaceful purples, blues, and greens. His bunnies are wonderfully expressive and appealing, while dozens of pleasurable details add interest—fabric designs featuring veggies popular with rabbits, the mosquito's shadow, nightshirted mice. A charming bedtime book that should be with us for years to come. (Picture book. 2-6)