Don’t Let The Pigeon Stay Up Late!
Text and Illustrations 2023 Mo Willems
Design by Scott Sosobee
"Don't Let the Pigeon Stay Up Late!" is another delightful addition to Mo Willems' popular Pigeon series. In this book, the Pigeon is determined to stay awake past his bedtime, and he's using every trick in the book to try and convince the reader to let him stay up just a little longer.
The book begins with the Pigeon making his usual, humorous pleas, insisting that he isn’t tired and that there are so many important things to do before going to bed. He argues that he doesn't need sleep and promises that he’ll be fine if he stays up late. As always, the reader is asked to intervene, with the Pigeon making increasingly exaggerated and silly requests in an attempt to wear them down.
Key Features:
Interactive Reading: Like the previous books in the Pigeon series, the book invites the reader to participate, often asking them to say "No!" when the Pigeon tries to stay up late. It encourages young readers to make decisions and respond to the Pigeon’s antics.
Humor and Relatability: The Pigeon’s exaggerated attempts to avoid bedtime are hilarious and relatable to young children, who might try similar tactics when they don't want to go to bed.
Simple Text and Repetition: Mo Willems’ writing is accessible for toddlers and preschoolers, with repetitive phrases and easy-to-follow text that make it a great choice for early readers or for read-aloud sessions.
Expressive Illustrations: The illustrations are full of energy, with the Pigeon’s expressive face and body language adding to the comedic effect of his increasingly wild behavior.
Themes:
Bedtime Struggles: The Pigeon's antics reflect the common challenge of getting kids to bed, making the book relatable to parents and caregivers. It’s a fun way to talk about bedtime routines.
Persistence and Negotiation: The Pigeon never gives up, using all kinds of excuses and strategies to delay bedtime, which kids will find amusing while also learning about persistence (and the importance of saying "No!").
Self-Regulation and Boundaries: The book helps reinforce the idea that bedtime is important and that sometimes we have to listen to others when they tell us it’s time to rest.
Why it's great for kids:
Engagement: The interactive "No!" moments will make kids laugh and actively engage with the story, which keeps their attention.
Relatable Humor: Many children try to stay up late just like the Pigeon, and they will love the Pigeon’s funny, exaggerated attempts to delay bedtime.
Easy-to-Understand: The story’s simple text and humorous illustrations make it an excellent choice for young readers or for parents to read aloud at bedtime.
"Don't Let the Pigeon Stay Up Late!" is the perfect bedtime book for young children who might resist going to sleep. Its humor, relatable content, and interactive elements will make it a favorite in any bedtime routine.