Parents' Guide to

Goodnight, Good Dog

By Bess Maher, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 4+

Restless pup falls asleep in lyrical bedtime story.

Goodnight, Good Dog Poster Image

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Is It Any Good?

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The simple but well-defined illustrations and the poetic but accessible language, as well as the familiar pattern of a bedtime book, makes this a sure favorite with parents and kids alike. Examples of Ray's poetic language include phrases such as "small night sounds," "moon quiet," and "the yellow ball of sun," and most young children should be able to understand such figurative language.

The dog is only able to fall asleep because he believes he can dream back the sun, which is the book's hook. Toddlers may not be able to grasp that concept, but three- and especially four-years-olds should be able to. Parents of poor sleepers may grimace about the dog's restless behavior at bedtime, but in the end the dog is able to fall asleep. Moreover, the rhythmic language, peaceful imagery, and the dog’s eventual sleepy state make this a nice bedtime book, and the promise of more playtime in the morning will resonate with young kids of a range of ages.

Book Details

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