Nighty-Night

Baby-Toddler--Patricelli's irrepressible baby is back for another wonderful board book installment. This title features the usual humorous tone mingled with the comforting routines of bedtime. After dinner, the baby bids farewell to the sun and says hello to the moon, before "Bye-bye pants. Naked dance!" The precious narrative speaks directly to the intended audience in language they are sure to respond to: "Brushy toothy. Brushy hair. Kissy Daddy. Huggy bear." In another context, this technique could be cloying, but the simplicity of the words, combined with the spare, appealing illustrations, makes for a harmonious read. After pajamas, a story, a song, and a final hug and kiss from both parents, the baby goes "nighty-night." VERDICT A highly recommended addition to all board book collections and a worthy companion to the other entries in the series.--Kristy Pasquariello, Wellesley Free Library, MA