Time for a Bath

The two bunnies from Time for a Hug return in a bath-themed sequel, which aims to establish a cause-and-effect relationship in readers’ minds: playing and mess-making are great, but getting cleaned up afterward is part of the deal. The smaller tan bunny takes several baths in the story, the first of which occurs after a pancake breakfast that leaves the kitchen in disarray (“Spills and spatters, goop and grit./ Fill the tub—What time is it?”). Various seasonal escapades—a summer trip to the beach, outdoor play in spring and autumn, and a messy day of painting indoors in winter—also result in baths, all of which the bunny submits to happily. Walker’s soft paintings underscore this mood of positivity, highlighting the small bunny’s independence (but also its loving relationship with its parent) in every scene. Ages 3–5. (Oct.)