Bump in the Night by EDWARD HEMINGWAY, EDWARD HEMINGWAY (Illustrator)

From the Publisher

Bumps in the night don't have to be scary!

No one likes being woken up by a bump in the night. What if it's a ghoulie, a ghosty or a long-leggedy beasty? This fresh and funny story turns this classic premise on its head when Billy's monster turns out to be a yo-yo using, horseback-riding, ghoulie-scaring, beastie-ropin' monster—just the kind you want to have along on adventures.

A breakout new talent shares a warm, clever take on the classic premise.

School Library Journal

PreS-Gr 2

This lively story meets nighttime fears head-on with the right mix of silliness and reassurance. Tucked into bed with Teddy by his side, a young boy closes his eyes and thinks about tomorrow's adventures until...there's a "bump" in the closet. Billy tries to be brave, but ends up under the bed. A "blue, bumping, bouncing, bellowing monster" appears and playfully grabs the teddy bear, but quickly returns it when the boy bursts into tears. Billy's fears are calmed, and the two become friends. Back in bed, Billy hears another "bump," but it's only the dog and he's definitely not afraid, "No-siree, Bob!" The acrylic-on-wood illustrations create the perfect mood for this appealing bedtime story. When the lights go out, the artwork glows in eerie moonlit blues. Objects have rounded edges and give comfort in the other-world quality of night. The placement of large and small illustrations enhances the text and accentuates the antics of the energetic boy and his new friend. Billy's Elvis-like hair, huge eyes, and expressive mouth make him a character to love. Children will find humor in the contrast between his courageous intentions and cowering actions. An excellent addition to nightstands and library shelves.-Carolyn Janssen, Public Library of Cincinnati and Hamilton County, OH

Kirkus Reviews

Sporting an Elvis 'do and clutching his teddy bear, young Billy confronts his fears and finds that a bump in the night doesn't have to be scary. At first glance, though, the blue monster that appears from his closet does have him a bit worried. But when said monster handily ties up a ghoulie, ghostie and long-legged beastie that have also appeared, Billy knows he is an ally and not an enemy. The two then set off on a dream adventure involving a pirate ship and plenty of pastries. When another bump from the closet turns out to be his dog, Billy settles down to sleep at last. Hemingway's tongue-in-cheek text keeps the action moving along and adds a touch of humor. Quirky retro-style illustrations in shades of blue set the scene while full-page spreads alternate with vignettes; clever details, such as blocks that spell out different words according to the action, reward scrutiny. While the field is certainly crowded, it seems likely that this offbeat entry just may find an appreciative audience. (Picture book. 3-6)

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