Thank You and Good Night

A thoughtful girl named Maggie has arranged for a surprise pajama party for her beloved bunny, Clement. The invitees are Jean the elephant and Alan Alexander the bear, and if you haven’t guessed by now that McDonnell (A Perfectly Messed-Up Story) is tipping his hat to some esteemed members of the children’s literature pantheon, then a very familiar window that pops up in one of the party scenes should do the trick. And what a swell party it is: Maggie is an excellent hostess, providing customized snacks for each friend (which they eat with a hearty “Nom Nom Nom”), but letting the animals steer the activities, which include a funny face contest and an almost criminally adorable yoga session. Best of all, Maggie reads the trio bedtime stories—“stories about a majestic elephant, a brave bear, and a quiet bunny.... Stories that bring sweet dreams.” That Maggie is revealed in the final scene snuggling her three favorite stuffed toys adds another wonderful layer to a book that readers of all ages will be thankful for. Ages 3–6. Agent: Henry Dunow, Dunow, Carlson & Lerner. (Oct.)