Sharing a bedtime story is a wonderful opportunity to spend quality time with your tots before lights out. Those little dreamers will drift off in no time with this brilliant selection of bedtime tales, for under 5s.
This is Not a Bedtime Story by Will Mabbit & Fred Blunt (Illustrator)
Bored of hearing her Dad read the same old story about fluffy Pink Kitten's perfect birthday picnic, Sophie decides it’s time for her to introduce her own imagination to this tired tale. Turning the traditional bedtime story on its head, this vibrant, funny picture book is an immersive reading experience that both parents and children will love.
Goodnight Spaceman by Michelle Robinson & Nick East (Illustrator)
A particularly special book in the Goodnight series, this story has been inspired by astronaut Tim Peake and his sons. Follow two space-mad little boys as their bedtime routine unfolds into an astronomical adventure. A stunning, calming picture book that will leave little ones to dream about their own space escapades.
Moomin and the Wishing Star by Tove Jansson
Whisk tots away to Moominvalley before bed with this tranquil picture book. After Moomintroll discovers a curious shiny pebble, Snorkmaiden suspects it might be a star and urges Moomin to make a wish. But thinking of the right wish isn’t as easy as it seems. This gentle tale, with its dreamlike illustrations, will leave little readers feeling calm and settled for the night ahead.
Max is feeling very sleepy. But before he settles down for the night he’s determined to say goodnight to the moon. However, when he heads outside he soon finds the moon is not as easy to spot as he had hoped. As he climbs higher and higher into the night searching for his friend, Max grows more and more weary. A heart-warming tale of perseverance and friendship that will help tots wind down after a long day.
Puffin Rock: Goodnight Beautiful Moon
Looking up at the night sky is always a fascinating experience but tonight Oona is a particularly excited little puffin - she’s been allowed to stay up late to see the supermoon. But all the excitement has made Oona feel quite sleepy. Will she be able to stay up long enough to see the moon in all its glory? This gorgeous picture book is based on the critically acclaimed animation series, Puffin Rock.
We’re All Wonders by RJ Palacio
Bedtime is the perfect opportunity to get your little ones reflecting on the world around them. This thought-provoking picture book has been created by the author of the modern classic Wonder to bring August Pullman’s message of kindness and acceptance to a younger audience. Starring Auggie and his faithful dog Daisy, this book uses powerful imagery and carefully chosen text to demonstrate how each person is special in their own way.
How to Tuck in Your Sleepy Lion by Jane Clarke & Georgie Birkett (Illustrator)
It’s time for bed but this little lion still wants to play! Follow this tired lion’s evening routine from bath to book to bed. Brought to life with Georgie Birkett’s wonderful illustrations the loveable characters in this short sweet board book will gently guide your little ones through their own bedtime routine.
Hairy Maclary From Donaldson’s Dairy by Lynley Dodd
The first in Lynley Dodd’s classic children’s series, this hilarious tale follows a mischievous little dog named Hairy Maclary as he travels from Donaldson’s Dairy, meeting both friend and foe along the way. Little readers will love the repetition of story, and the glorious rhyming prose will help secure it as a bedtime favourite for years to come.
