How to Make a Bedtime

An artfully constructed bedtime book. * Kirkus Reviews *
McKinlay imbues the familiar routine with low-key, teasing suspense and inventive endearments, while Blair offers the fantasy of a caregiver whose furry snout, loving gaze, and warm, pajamaed bulk supply endless patience and ideal hugs. * Publishers Weekly *
McKinlay’s rhyming text is both lulling and lively as the youngster, adorned with a soap-bubble beard, plays with a rubber duckie… . Blair deftly employs soothing colors in her illustrations, capturing the coziness of this warm ritual; the large bear never feels imposing, and the child’s sleepy body language is sweet… . A bear hug of a book that could become a bedtime favorite. * The Horn Book *
Using a cuddly bear as the adult, and rhythmic, rhyming language to carry the narrative, we share the final game in the blanket fort, bathtime, putting on pyjamas, looking for the lost teddy, a song and a cuddle and of course, the story – all events that little ones will recognise as they get ready to snuggle down. Perhaps there are other things that are part of their routine they could add as they compare their routine to that in the story. And certainly the adult sharing the story will relate to Bear’s final action revealed on the back endpaper!!! One to give to all parents who are travelling this path with their toddler and who dread that time of the day… – Barbara Braxton * The Bottom Shelf *

Meg McKinlay

Meg McKinlay is the author of eighteen books ranging from picture books and young adult fiction through to poetry for adults. Raised in central Victoria, in a TV- and car-free household, Meg was a bookish kid, in love with words and excited by dictionaries. On the long and winding path to becoming a children’s writer, she has worked a variety of jobs including swim instructor, tour guide, translator and teacher. Meg is now a full-time writer and lives near the ocean in Fremantle, Western Australia, where she is always busy cooking up more books.

Karen Blair

Karen Blair grew up in Perth, Western Australia. She loves to illustrate the joys and adventures of childhood. She lives in Fremantle with her husband and two children and works part-time as a primary-school art teacher. Her characters are often inspired by her students and her own children. Her award-winning books include Something Wonderful and Hello From Nowhere, by Raewyn Caisley, With Nan, by Tania Cox, Granny Grommet and Me by Dianne Wolfer, Me and You by Deborah Kelly, Baby Beats, and Baby Animal Farm.

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