Review by Booklist Review
In this adorably illustrated tale of an anthropomorphic not-so-sleepy Little Panda, the titular character, having a hard time going to bed, makes up all sort of excuses to persuade her parents to let her stay awake. When it becomes clear to Mama and Papa that there might be a specific reason their daughter is fending off nighttime rest--fear of the dark--they seek a helpful solution to make her feel more comfortable and safe during bedtime. When Little Panda sees all her friends asleep and bedtime lullabies and storybooks aren't doing the job, it takes a creative mama to seek out nature's own version of a nightlight to reassure her child. Walker's sweet, lyrical rhyming lines are accompanied by the author's soothing pastel illustrations that feature wild animals who are as cute as stuffed animals and going through their own challenges just like human children. Little Panda's tale is sure to resonate with kids who like to ask a lot of questions when the lights go out and everyone is tucked in for the night.
From Booklist, Copyright (c) American Library Association. Used with permission.
Review by Kirkus Book Review
A young panda is reluctant to go to sleep until the real reason she's been putting off bedtime comes to light. Little Panda plays all day with her friends, but when it's time to climb into bed, she isn't ready. She tries to explain to Mama that her friends are still up, so why can't she stay awake, too? Mama tiptoes with her through the forest to show her that Bird, Monkey, and Little Lion are all fast asleep. Back at home, Little Panda grumbles that her pillow is too thick, and she's hungry and even a little thirsty, too. Mama and Papa try reading aloud and singing, but nothing helps. Finally, Little Panda admits that she's afraid of the dark. Mama thoughtfully asks some fireflies if they'll share their light; they agree, and Mama fills a jar with a few insects--a makeshift night light! Walker's gentle rhymes ("Come, my sweet girl, day's turned into night. / So drift off to sleep and close your eyes tight") will lull readers to sleep even amid Little Panda's protests. Mama and Papa meet every obstacle with reassurance and patience (though their eyes become increasingly drowsy, and their heads droop down). Smudged greens, blues, and purples wrap readers in a cozy nighttime blanket, getting them ready for sleep, too. A sweet nighttime offering that will lead to snuggles and yawns.(Picture book. 2-5) Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.
Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.
