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Books to Read When... It's Time for Bed

By Suzanne
Bedtime can be one of the most special parts of the day. It's a chance to slow down, snuggle up, and share a story together. Picture books help little ones transition from the busyness of the day to a peaceful night’s rest. Whether filled with humor, adventure, or quiet lullabies, these bedtime stories make reading together a cherished routine. Here is a list of bedtime picture books sure to bring a touch of magic to the end of the day.

Down the Sleepy River
Written by Emma Drage
Illustrated by Carmen Saldana
Somerville, MA: Candlewick Press, 2024. Picture Book.

This gentle book peacefully guides young readers on a soothing journey toward sleep. As readers drift along a calm river, they say goodnight to various animals, such as rhinos, lions, elephants, giraffes, and turtles. Before turning each page there is a mindful breathing prompt— "Breathe in, breathe out." The richly colored illustrations create a tranquil atmosphere, and the rhythmic, calming prose invites children (and caregivers) to release the day’s tension and prepare for rest.

It Simply Can't Be Bedtime
Written by Pamela Paul
Illustrated by Steven Salerno
New York: G.P. Putnam's Sons, 2025. Picture Book. 

This is a funny and relatable story that captures the many excuses kids make to delay going to sleep. The lively text and playful rhythm mirror a child’s energy, while the illustrations add extra humor to each silly protest. Parents will recognize the familiar bedtime battles, and children will enjoy seeing their own antics reflected in the pages. It’s a lighthearted read-aloud that makes bedtime a little more fun.

The Bedtime Boat
Written by Sital Gorasia Chapman
Illustrated by Anastasia Suvorova
Northampton, MA: Crocodile Books, 2024. Picture Book. 

In this calming bedtime book a little one sets sail on a bedtime boat, drifting past soft waves and quiet scenes guided by his mother. The lyrical text and dreamy illustrations create a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for winding down at the end of the day. It’s an ideal bedtime read for helping children relax and feel safe as they drift off to sleep.

The Bear, the Book, and the Blanket
Written by Lou Peacock
Illustrated by Ged Adamson
Lincoln, MA: Nosy Crow, 2024. Picture Book.

In this playful story, Bear wants his book, blanket, and of course his mama close by, but getting settled isn’t as simple as it seems. With gentle humor and a relatable look at bedtime routines, this book captures a child’s need for both comfort and a parent’s patience. Sweet illustrations add to the cozy feel, making it a perfect read-aloud for young children.

All the Animals Were Sleeping
Written by Clare Helen Welsh
Illustrated by Jenny Lovlie
Lincoln, MA: Nosy Crow, 2024

In this book, young readers follow a little mongoose as it scampers across the Serengeti, heading home to its burrow. Along the way, it quietly passes giraffes, zebras, monkeys, elephants, storks, lizards, butterflies, and cheetahs—all uniquely settled in slumber—creating a gentle, rhythmic bedtime journey.  Rich illustrations deepen the tranquil mood, while the repetition of “all the animals were sleeping” provides comforting predictability for bedtime readers.

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