Bedtime is boring by David Campbell. Illus. by Daron Parton

Bedtime is boring by David Campbell is a funny picture book that will resonate with both the child listening and the parent/caregiver who is reading!

The story follows a cheeky little rabbit who doesn't want to go to bed because not only is it boring but they have so many other thing to do! Bouncing, burrowing and building are all activities that Billy the bunny believes are very important to do instead of going to bed. Throughout the story we hear many (familiar) excuses as to why he shouldn't go to bed - eventually wearing himself out and getting in to bed.

The thing I really loved about this story is how much we could relate to it! I read it to my 6 year old daughter and she thought it was a great story. In her words "The Mummy and Daddy rabbit sound just like you when I don't go to bed!". David Campbell has really succeeded in engaging both the reader and listener through this link. 

The illustrator, Daron Parton, has brought the rabbit family to life in such a bright and fun way. The rabbits portray very familiar emotions and physical stances (hands on hips, eye rolls and the look of a worn down parent!) which I feel adds huge value to the story. In particular the facial expressions of the parents - every time I have read the book their faces resonate with me and link to my personal experience of bedtime with children!

Overall, a great book for young children and their eternally tired parents

Themes: Bedtime, Rabbits, Parenting.

Lauren Fountain