Parents' Guide to Itsy Mitsy Runs Away

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Common Sense Media Review

Monica Mehta By Monica Mehta , based on child development research. How do we rate?

age 4+

Tender book about bedtime battles imparts a loving message.

Parents Need to Know

Why Age 4+?

Any Positive Content?

Parent and Kid Reviews

age 7+

Based on 1 kid review

What's the Story?

Little Itsy Mitsy does not want to go to bed. So, she informs her father that she is running away. Her father decides to help her pack, and starts with basics such as her favorite stuffed animal and a snack. The book quickly veers into more imaginative territory as he suggests she pack something to shoo off the "bedtime beasties." After that she must pack her dog to fend off the beasties, a light to see with, and eventually, the house and her father. The task proves to be so tiring that she ends up falling asleep. It's so fun that she asks her dad if she can "run away again tomorrow."

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say : Not yet rated
Kids say ( 1 ):

This funny, sweet bedtime picture book has a simple yet imaginative storyline. The humorous text, written in short rhythmic passages, is easy for early readers to master. The colored pencil cartoon drawings come to life on the page as the main character gets ready to run away. This is a great pick for children who just don't like to sleep -- and you know who they are.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about bedtime and the importance of resting and sleeping. Do you ever feel like Itsy Mitsy? What are some ways bedtime can be an easier, happier process?

  • What are "bedtime beasties?" Parents may want to ask their kids about their own fears and what they imagine -- while also reminding their kids there is no such thing.

Book Details

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