Bear's Nap

It is that awful night when sleep seems to be impossible – there are too many noises. Poor Bear, he has prepared for bed carefully; goodnight snack, bedtime book, bubble bath and teeth. He is ready. Oh no – that little yellow bird we have just noticed as Bear snuggles down, starts to cheep. Bear tries to find the source of the trouble – but it is all getting noisier and noisier as birds and animals join in to prove it isn’t any of them cheeping. Finally Bear loses patience – and everyone leaves including bird. Now for a peaceful sleep….surely. Perhaps not…

Gravett takes a very familiar theme and handles it with ease, skill and humour. She invites the reader in. We are complicit with the author; Bear doesn’t see the little bird – but we do. Then finally there is the satisfying reveal – and the tables-turned conclusion. Gravett’s images fill each double spread with colour, character – and sound. Bear’s annoyance at being kept awake will resonate with many a parent. Children will love his grumpiness; adults may appreciate the be-careful-what-you-wish-for almost conclusion. All will enjoy exploring from the moment the book opens and we are invited into the wood to reach Bear in his cave to the end when we tiptoe out past sleeping animals. This may not be an original trope – but Gravett’s imagination brings fresh life to it. Definitely one for your bedtime story.