Things That Go Bump in the Day

Typical daytime noises—at first listen, a fire engine, a lawn mower—jangle the nerves and fuel the imagination of a young vampire trying to get some shuteye in Beatty’s reassuring take on bedtime anxieties. Teal-skinned Vlad, cozy in his coffin, calls for Mama when he hears a “CLICKETY CLACK, CLICKETY CLACK... SKREEEK!” and visualizes, in horror, a mail carrier going about their work. But blue-complexioned Mama assures Vlad that it’s merely their top hat–clad neighbor snake, Sirus the Slithery, riding his bike. Chua’s zingy digital art does double duty, delivering an image of Sirus zooming past the mail carrier. The tandem print and visual through lines allow for an engaging blend of outlandish and ordinary. Mama’s soothing, consistent presence—even while sporting Medusa-like snake hair curlers—permeates all. Ages 4–8. (Aug.)