Let the Giggles Roll: A Review of The Yawns Are Coming!
As a book blogger and a parent, I often find myself searching for that perfect bedtime story—one that can spark laughter, impart gentle wisdom, and gently guide my kids towards slumber. When I stumbled upon The Yawns Are Coming! by Chris Eliopoulos—renowned for his work on the Ordinary People Change the World series—I immediately felt a sense of intrigue. This charming tale felt like it might just capture the whimsical essence of bedtime adventures while ushering in cozy yawns. Little did I know, this vibrant story would enchant my family and me with its humor and delightful illustrations.
At its core, The Yawns Are Coming! follows two best friends who have lofty plans to stay up all night during a sleepover. Instead of the usual bedtime routines, they plan a raucous night filled with fun. However, the inevitable happens—the yawns arrive. Try as they might to dodge this sleepy foe, the Yawns prove to be contagiously persistent, bringing with them a Doze and the dreaded Snores. Eliopoulos beautifully captures the struggle of children wanting to hold on to every exciting moment while subtly suggesting the importance of winding down for sleep.
The narrative flows with an infectious rhythm, perfect for reading aloud. Eliopoulos uses playful language that invites giggles from the very first page. I found myself chuckling alongside my children as they echoed the phrases. The use of humor to convey the story’s themes of friendship and the importance of sleep is both clever and engaging. A standout moment is when the children humorously strategize ways to resist the yawns—“Keep away from the Yawns!”—which not only made my kids laugh but also became a phrase we repeated leading up to bedtime.
Visually, this book is a feast for the eyes. The illustrations are vibrant and reminiscent of Calvin and Hobbes and Peanuts, which had me reminiscing about my own childhood. They capture the emotions of our protagonists beautifully, adding depth to their delightful mischief. The expressive faces and dynamic scenes invite readers to immerse themselves fully in the tale. It’s a perfect blend of humor and artistry that draws children into the narrative.
As my children snuggled up while I read, I felt the weight of the evening lift. It reminded me that bedtime can be both an adventure and a transition into restfulness. Many customer reviews echoed this sentiment. One reader shared, “This book has really started to instill a love for bedtime stories!” and I wholeheartedly agree. My kids have embraced nighttime reading with a new enthusiasm, often asking for The Yawns Are Coming! multiple times a night—something every parent can cherish.
In conclusion, I would highly recommend The Yawns Are Coming! for parents looking to create a joyful bedtime routine while subtly easing their children into sleep. This book is ideal for ages 3-5, yet I found its charm transcending age boundaries, making it delightful for the whole family. It offers a heartfelt reminder of the power of friendship, laughter, and the inevitable journey we all take into the land of dreams. So, grab a copy and prepare for a delightful reading experience that just might make you yawn!