William's Winter Nap

After snuggling in for the night in his log cabin, a boy named William is repeatedly awakened by animals seeking shelter. A chipmunk is first: " 'Excuse me, but I've lost my way./ I'm cold and tired. May I please stay?'/ Will says, 'Yes, I'll scooch a bit./ There's room for two--I'm sure we'll fit.' " Other animals follow, crowding the bed--and then an enormous bear shows up. Ashman's meticulously crafted rhymes are a delight to read, and the page turns build gentle tension (who's at the door now?). Groenink makes the cabin look eminently cozy, in contrast to the snowy blue-black night outside. And his forest creatures--who yawn in unison with William each time they try to get some shut-eye--are as adorable as it gets. Ages 3-6. Author's agent: Jennifer Mattson, Andrea Brown Literary. Illustrator's agent: Stephen Barr, Writers House. (Oct.)

Copyright 2017 Publishers Weekly, LLC Used with permission.

PreS-Gr 1--One cold winter night, a boy named William is about to fall asleep, then hears the sound of a "tap, tap, tap" outside. He scooches over to make room for a cold and tired chipmunk until a series of other abrupt noises..."knocking...booming...pinging... and crunching" are followed by a troupe of other unexpected house guests. These sleepy evening visitors range in size from a porcupine, beaver, and raccoon to a towering bear. In each instance, there is always room for one more. Ashman's lilting rhymes are ideal as a soothing bedtime story, accompanied by bold illustrations of a dark, bluish purple night dotted by white swirly snowflakes. The entreating look on each animal's face peering in at the door is irresistibly sweet, though the bear's looming presence at story's end seems almost too dark to discern. Young children will simply enjoy this as an endearing, cuddle-up story at bedtime, especially on a stormy night. An added value to the tale is its emphasis on the benefits of bestowing hospitality to those in need and a generosity of spirit towards new friends. VERDICT A cozy winter story best saved for nighttime reading, and a good purchase for most collections.--Etta Anton, Yeshiva of Central Queens, NY

Copyright 2017 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

*"Beautifully paced, rhymed, and cadenced . . . The text reads aloud well, with natural places for kids to join in . . . a subdued palate of deep blues, grays, and tawny browns . . creates a strong sense of the setting and the appealing characters. Just right for reading aloud on cold, wintry nights." —Booklist (starred review)