Even Monsters Say Good Night

Nervous at bedtime, especially “on Halloween when the monsters were all out,” a girl named Avery relies on her mother to defuse her fears. One by one, Avery’s mother explains that monsters, werewolves, mummies, and other creatures all sleep at night, just like children—except for vampires, who “just sleep during the day” (which isn’t actually all that reassuring). Subtle background textures help enliven otherwise flat images, which don’t evoke much trepidation on Avery’s part (Marts seems more interested in capturing the homey details of Avery’s house and the monsters’ crypts and lairs). By book’s end, Avery is fully reassured, even bidding the monsters good night (it turns out they are all her neighbors—perhaps a move is in order?). It’s a mild and somewhat unfocused offering, but similarly timid readers might find comfort in knowing that vampires and skeletons sleep with teddy bears and nightcaps. Ages 3–7. Agency: Bright Agency. (Aug.)