Most children have a way to forestall bedtime. The little boy in Lisa Graff’s warm-hearted picture book strives to live in the present. At dinner, while washing dishes and throughout his nighttime routine, he continually reminds his parents that there is still a lot that must happen before he goes to sleep. He fights fatigue until he gets his good night hug from both his parents – then it is time for sleeping.
Lauren Castillo captures the comforts of home with her boldly outlined images. Her illustrations include numerous realistic details, such as potted plants on a window sill, dish rags on the counter, a canister of cooking utensils, dirty socks on the bathroom floor and running water in the bathroom. Images grow darker with each page. The glow of night lights and a full moon shining through a window contrast with the shadows of bedroom furniture. The reader can almost feel the warmth of a blanket and the heaviness of sleepy eyes as the book ends. A former teacher, Jennifer Minicus is currently a full-time wife and mother.