Bedtime for Bonzo Or Your Little Monkeys

We have a rather elaborate bedtime reading ritual in our house. We read a larger youth novel as a family, then we read picture books (sometimes the kids read them aloud), and we usually read bible stories as well. Bedtime stories can be anything, but some books lend themselves to sleepy times. Here are a couple quick reviews for sleepy bedtime stories.

“The Boy and the Moon”

By James Christopher Carroll

For Ages 4 - 8

This dreamy adventure features a boy on a moonlit night as he howls at the moon and dances about until the crescent moon becomes stuck in a tree. With a little ingenuity and bravery the boy climbs the tree and feeds the moon apple. Once it is full, the moon rolls out of the tree. The illustrations may not suit everyone's taste but the fantastical personified imagery of the moon coupled with the muted color palette and dreamy swirls make this poetic book a solid choice for bedtime. Rated: 3.5

What’s good: Fantasy, pacing and poetic adventure for bedtime.

What’s bad: Illustration style may not suit everyone's taste.

“Bedtime for Bear”

By Brett Helquist

For ages 2 - 8

There is nothing new in this hibernation tale. You’ve seen it before, but not quite the way Helquist manages to bring it to life. His lavish illustrations and visual storytelling are impeccable. Sprinkled with humor and action. readers will want to crawl into the pages and join the adventure. Alas, the fun has to come to an end as Helquist calls, “It’s Bedtime for Bears.” The illustrations alone make this one of the better hibernation tales around. Rated: 4
What’s good: Great illustrations and fun bedtime reading.

What’s bad: Cliché storyline.