The TTLG 2011 Picture Book Celebration - Book Seventy-One

Being told that it is "time for bed" has to be one of the most trying things young children have to deal with. It is up there with "eat all your food," "brush your teeth," and "pick up your toys." Today's picture book is about four young animals who find a creative way to get around having to go to bed.

The Secret Plan

Julia Sarcone-Roach

Picture Book

For ages 5 to 8

Random House, 2009, 978-0-375-85858-1

   Milo the little elephant and his friends Henry, Hildy, and Harriet are always having their best games and adventures interrupted. Why is it that grownups are forever calling them in for meals or to do chores? Of course, the worst excuse that adults come up with is to tell Milo and his friends that it is bedtime. Bedtime is such a drag.

   Milo and his feline friends decide that the best way to avoid bedtime is to find a place where they can hide. They find all kinds of hiding places and disguises, but they are always found. They try to sneak out but they always get caught. Then Hildy comes up with a new idea. Perhaps they are going about this whole bedtime problem in the wrong way. Perhaps there is another way to extend their playtime, a better way.

   Children who are fed up with being told that it is bedtime will thoroughly enjoy this unique picture book. They will meet a quartet of characters who are instantly appealing and they will appreciate the solution that the young animals come up with.

   With wonderfully unique illustrations and a memorable format, this is a picture book that is perfect for those not-quite-ready-for-bedtime moments.