From Publishers Weekly
Kellogg's characteristically buoyant art is the most satisfying aspect of this high-spirited bedtime romp. When their parents tell them that it's almost time for bed, a cherubic brother and sister and two polar bear sidekicks launch into a rendition of this traditional song. After a few lilting verses in which an assortment of animal colleagues join the foursome, and all brave a waterfall in a boat, the narrative's rhythm falters as the author breaks from the familiar cadence of the tune. In calmer waters, the crew sings out "A-reading we will go! A-reading we will go!" as they entertain a pod of whales with a book. After taking a bath, the kids and their pals go "a-brushing," "pajamming" and finally "a-hugging," bidding goodnight to their parents before climbing into bed with their good-natured menagerie. Endpapers present the musical score for this song, yet Kellogg's improvisations make it difficult to sing along smoothly. Although those trying to read aloud may stumble, preschool listeners aren't likely to care, given the verses' playful rhyme and the ample diversion of the jovial graphics (as when whales dive underwater into human beds; a child uses "goose shampoose" to lather up the waterfowl). Adding to the visual fun, the book's playful design introduces a variety of type sizes and attributes portions of the text (in cartoon balloons) to the cheerful, sleep-fighting siblings. Ages 2-up.
Copyright 1998 Reed Business Information, Inc.
From School Library Journal
PreSchool-Grade 2-Kellogg gives new life to a traditional folk song in this lively book. When a young brother and sister are reminded that "it's almost time for bed," they try to put off the inevitable by singing a song that takes them on an imaginary trip into a forest, down a stream, and over a waterfall. Along the way, they find a moose and a goose who "are on the loose," spot a "weasel at the easel," "tickle a giraffe and make him laugh," and meet other assorted animals, originally seen as toys in their room. "Moose gets tubbed," "Goose gets scrubbed," and llamas are put in pajamas, as everyone prepares for bed. Finally, after hugs and kisses, it is "off to sleep we'll go." Kellogg uses his trademark style to give all of the animals charming personalities. He is a master at combining real-life events with the imaginary, creating humorous illustrations that demand time to be carefully scrutinized. Children will appreciate all of the clever details. The cheery rhyming text and funny dialogue balloons beg to be shared aloud. An author's note comments on the history and variations of the song. A sing-out-loud bedtime romp.
Nancy A. Gifford, Schenectady County Public Library, NYCopyright 1998 Reed Business Information, Inc.
