WINTER LULLABY, by Dianne White and Ramona Kaulitzki, Candlewick, Dec. 7, 2021, Hardcover, $17.99 (ages 4-8)
A restless cub wonders why he must go to bed in Winter Lullaby, written by Dianne White and illustrated by Ramona Kaulitzki.
Geese are calling, a chilly wind is blowing, and the sky is turning gray. Winter is on its way. For Mama Bear and Small Bear, that means it’s time to tuck into their den for a long sleep. But Mouse is scurrying by, and Chipmunk is still gathering nuts beside the lake. And look at Hare and Skunk, still romping through the leaves! Why can’t Small Bear stay up, too? To each question, Mama Bear responds with the coziest of answers, finally painting a dreamy picture of the brightening colors and new adventures that will greet Small Bear in the spring. But first comes sleep. —Synopsis provided by Candlewick
“But, why?”
It’s a phrase countless parents have heard time and time again as they try to settle their little ones down to sleep. In Winter Lullaby, Mama Bear patiently explains that everyone — even those that are busy playing — has to sleep. Human parents will appreciate parallels between this story and their own lives. And they’ll enjoy reading White’s gentle and rhythmic text aloud.
Kaulitzki’s expressive illustrations are full of warmth, bringing smiles with every page.
Winter Lullaby is a sweet bedtime story that kids will want to read over and over again. The publisher’s suggested age range is 4-8, but I think it skews slightly younger, ages 3-6.
You can extend the Winter Lullaby fun by downloading the book’s Activity Kit, a fingerplay called “Here is a Cave” and a separate link to the “Shhh! I’m Hibernating” door hanger that is part of the Activity Kit.
