A Bedtime for Bear

Bear and Mouse return to prove that friends may not be perfect, but they're there when it matters most. Bear can't stand noise at bedtime, so he isn't pleased when Mouse turns up to spend the night. Mouse's humming, squeaking, and whispers of "Good night!" make Bear lose his patience, but when the house at last falls silent, Bear discovers that having everything just so is less important than having a friend when nighttime sounds turn scary. Denton's ink and watercolor illustrations ably express the dry humor of Becker's dialogue and personifications, which make this a bedtime standout. Ages 5–7. (Sept.)