Night-Night Stories

by Sam Taplin, Francesca di Chiara (Illustrator)

Provides stories about such animals as a lion, elephant, penguin, and bear, as they each get ready for bed.

Genres: Childrens, Animals

12 pages, Board book

First published January 1, 2009

About the author

Sam Taplin grew up in a beautiful valley in Yorkshire, where he dreamed of being a writer, and after three years reading other people's books at university he started writing his own. He's been doing it ever since. When he's not writing about lonely rabbits or inquisitive bears, he likes doing card tricks, writing songs and playing long games of chess by the fire.

Reviews

[Bree]

Adorable. I loved this book of short bedtime stories. Every story held a special message it sent to the child about love and connection. I loved it so much at times I was getting misty. It's just so sweet especially the first one about missing someone, and not knowing if they are thinking about you. Each page shined with a peaceful light. The illustrations were beautiful and just illuminated off the page. Perfect way to end the night.

[Maria Morrison]

A bit underwhelmed by the repetitive stories meant for children lacking in pictures and real structure. One or two of the stories are cute, but this is certainly not one I would recommend with any weight.

[Jessie Bear]

Various animals fall asleep in this board book, which is explicitly intended to put children to sleep. This shimmering board book features soft illustrations with delicate hues, curved shapes, and darling animal characters. The metallic decorations within each illustration illuminate the boards in a somewhat ethereal manner. Tabs marking each page provide easier page turning and some tactile interest. However, the text of this board book leads it somewhat astray. There are too many words per page for this board book to be entirely successful as a story read out loud. While each one focuses on the concept of bedtime, they are too drawn out and repetitive for the ideal audience. Perhaps a short sentence instead of paragraphs would have better presented these miniature stories, or maybe each story could become its own board book instead of being crammed on a single spread in fourteen point font. Ignoring all text, this book could be attractive for a very young audience and might make a good gift book. However, it is only marginally recommended for libraries and collections that serve children under three.

[Shelly Koressel]

This is a wonderful book of poems that is very relaxing at bedtime. I know that preschool and below would enjoy this book, but my older 3rd and 4th grader like to also hear this book over and over.

[Caroline]

Just got this book for Josie. These stories are very relaxing and perfect for lulling her into a sleepy mood.

[AGV K]

This is a beautiful book, but the stories are not that interesting.