You are not alone

As a pale-skinned child anxiously prepares for slumber, a mantra-like refrain, "You are not alone," supplies comfort in this emotionally grounding picture book. Law's second-person prose conveys an empathic knowingness about nighttime fears (the way bedtime can feel "like it's about to be/ you and no one else/ until morning") before invoking soothing bedtime experiences as companions ("not alone,/ glows the night-light"). As the narrative widens beyond domestic moments, the nearby natural world too offers reassurance ("not alone,/ chirps the cricket"), soon echoed by "the porchlights of the homes," vehicles rumbling in the distance, and stars above. Employing a texturized mix of materials, Li skillfully supports the story's cozy qualities with homey details and scenes that make the whole world seem friendly. Ages 3--7. (Aug.)

Newbery Honoree Law's inviting picture-book debut highlights reassuring rituals for bedtime. "Sometimes / bedtime / might feel / like the dark cave / in the gloomy woods / from your favorite storybook," Law acknowledges. "Close the book, child," she urges, "and remember: / you are not alone." The night light glows, parents offer comfort, left-open doors brighten, kisses linger. Even after good nights, best-loved stuffies remain close. Meanwhile, the household offers plenty of signs of activity: Grandma's got three more bathroom visits to go; the fridge hums along; the kitty purrs. Outside, a cricket chirps, an owl hoots, and porch lights illuminate the "homes of friends, neighbors, / of people you don't yet know / but might… / one day." At all hours, cars, trucks, and trains are in constant motion, leaving behind echoes. "You are never alone, / say the pages / of this book," in soft rhythmic repetition throughout, lulling audiences gently to slumberland. Li's lucid palette smooths the child's worries, easing concerns with vibrant lightness--and a never-far security quilt of primary colors. Beyond Law's verses, Li's detailed illustrations add additional comforts: The stuffed animals are larger-than-life protectors, walls are warmed by family photographs, and grandmother and grandchild sport matching bunny slippers. A parent's final check on the sleeping child provides that definitive assurance of safety. Characters are light-skinned. Law's title becomes a soothing refrain that softens nighttime fears and encourages welcome rest.(Picture book. 3-7) Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.