Just when William is ready to fall asleep in his cozy cabin, there is a tap on his window. A chilly chipmunk asks to stay, and Will scooches over in bed. “There’s room for two–I’m sure we’ll fit.” The chipmunk is just the first in a parade of mammals, each bigger than the last, until the bed is full. Then a note is slipped beneath the door: “Do you have room for just one more?” William tugs the door to see who’s there . . . only to find a great big BEAR! Is there enough space to spare? Will the other animals be willing to share?
Are you looking for just the right pajama storytime or bedtime book? Well, look no further, friends, because this adorable rhyming charmer of a picture book is just the thing you’ve been looking for! Reminiscent of Move Over, Rover! and The Mitten, this is a sweet, gentle, lovely story about caring for others that I’m sure little ones will want to read again and again.
Linda Ashman’s rhymes absolutely dance off the tongue – I’m very picky when it comes to rhymes, and these just ticked all of my boxes with their joyful, bouncy rhythm. I’m sure they would work beautifully when read-aloud to a group!
And those illustrations! Oh my goodness, who wouldn’t want to curl up in bed with all of these charming little woodland creatures? There’s a gentle, almost vintage quality to Chuck Groenick’s illustrations that manages to capture both the icy blue cold of the wintery woods and the cozy, warmly-lit softness of William’s cabin with wonderful effect.
In a funny way, William’s Winter Nap seems especially fitting in these difficult times, with its gentle reminder to welcome those in need. It might be easier (and more comfortable) for William to refuse the furry visitors looking for a warm place to sleep, but never once does he turn someone away (though at one point he and the other woodland creatures are sorely tempted). What’s one more guest when it really matters?
If you couldn’t already tell by my effusive praise, I really, really enjoyed William’s Winter Nap, and highly recommend it, especially if, like William, you’re also living in a winter wonderland of snow!
William’s Winter Nap
Hardcover, 40 pages
October 10, 2017 : Disney-Hyperion
Source: Library