PLEASE GO TO SLEEP
By Sue Whiting

Reviewed by Sue Clancy, Reading Time Vol 46 No.3 Aug 2002

“This is a thoroughly entertaining and enjoyable book for young children. The story relates to the problem of all the noises that can suddenly be heard as darkness descends and parents try to settle youngsters down to sleep. Every little sound causes angst for the youngster while parents strive to remain patient, calm and reassuring …

“The personalities of the two characters are portrayed as much by their changing expressions and careful detailing of their eyes, as by the actual wording of the text. The language is subtle and soothing, and the words work wonderfully as a read aloud bedtime story. The little twist at the end of the tale will leave readers with a giggle and smiles on their faces. SC”

Reviewed by Nola Allen Magpies Vol 17 No.3 July 2002
“Mother Tiger soothes wakeful Tiny Tiger as he listens to the noises of the night. As they build in strangeness, Tiny Tiger’s anxiety increases and he creeps closer to his mother. Mother Tiger’s exhaustion shows on her face and in her exasperated plea to her young one to go to sleep. Finally the baby tiger goes to sleep and the noises he hears on waking are the morning noises of the jungle. Variously coloured text is set against dark purple skies and green jungle plants. The weird jungle noises exploding against this dark background invite a boisterous reading and participation …”

Reviewed by Sally Murphy www.aussiereviews.com

“Please Go To Sleep is a fun new picture book from talented Australian children’s author, Sue Whiting. Kids will love the humour and movement of the story, learning to echo the noises of the jungle as the story is read.

Sleep-deprived parents will also appreciate the story, relating to the increasing frustration of the mother as she tries to allay Tiny Tiger’s fears and encourage him to settle down to sleep. Putting feeling into the reading of Mother Tiger’s “Please, please, please go to sleep” will be easy for parents who have had similar experiences.

The text is well supported by the gorgeous illustrations by Michael Mucci. Mucci’s use of rich greens and purples captures the night jungle in a way which is appealing and non-threatening to children – he manages to make it night without being drab. The tigers are beautifully drawn, with the expressions of fear and frustration (on Tiny and his Mother’s face respectively) cleverly drawn.

Targeted at 3 to 6 year olds, Please Go To Sleep is an outstanding offering from Banana Books, the children’s book imprint of innovative new publisher, Otford Press. A must have for every collection.”