When the Sun Goes Down

Employing cozy textures and pared-down visual geometries, Pizzoli (Lucky Duck) creates a beguilingly simple wind-down story that’s equal parts lullaby and primer. As the sun—depicted as two concentric circles, one orange and one yellow—makes its exit, a pale-skinned, ponytailed child surveys five creatures, first in a flower-filled backyard, then in the snug indoors. To the child’s question, “Where do you go when the sun goes down?” each responds with soothing verse. “I go under a leaf,” a butterfly replies. “I find a good leaf/ and crawl underneath./ I go under a leaf/ when the sun goes down.” The critters’ respective resting places are shown in close-up, with every anthropomorphized being happily ensconced and smiling. The question is then asked of the youth (“And/ what/ about/ you?”), and a voice reviews all the previously noted sleeping spots (“Do you go under a leaf?/ NO”) before revealing the answer and a snoozing, contentedly tucked-in child: “You go to your bed/ and sleep safe and sound./ You go to your bed/ when the sun goes down.” With a build reminiscent of Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See?, it’s an inviting picture book that gently wishes sweet dreams for all. Ages 2–5. Agent: Steven Malk, Writers House. (Apr.)