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Cuddle up! by kristen schottPublished: April, 2010

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The advent of the Snuggie has given cuddling a new meaning. No longer do families fight over the blanket when nestling in for story time – now Mom, Dad, brother, sister and even the dog have his or her own blanket with sleeves. But, what’s so wrong with that blanket? Isn’t the whole idea of reading with one another supposed to bring the family closer? With that in mind, I say ditch the Snuggies tonight, bring out that well-worn blanket and get cozy with these cuddly bedtime tales. ‘The Fathers Are Coming Home’ [ages 2-5] By Margaret Wise Brown; illustrated by Stephen Savage (Margaret K. McElderry; $16.99; 32 pages) This book’s title alone evokes memories of my childhood – times when my dad would come home after a hard day’s work. And the pages within, which highlight, among others, a rabbit, a fish and a bird father that hop, swim or fly home, are just as touching. The story beautifully depicts the joy felt by both the parent and the child when they are reunited at the end of the day, and it’s one to be shared again and again. ‘Boom Boom Go Away!’ [ages 3-6] By Laura Geringer; illustrated by Bagram Ibatoulline (Atheneum; $15.99; 40 pages) This imaginative bedtime tale is destined to become a classic. Through a series of musical sounds and rhymes, a little boy shows his parents he doesn’t want to go to bed. The book is an example of the Dalcroze method, which gets kiddies to share the beauty of music with others, according to Geringer, whose author’s note offers the meaning behind this book. And it might just inspire some musicality in your child, too. ‘Peeny Butter Fudge’ [ages 4-8] By Toni and Slade Morrison; illustrated by Joe Cepeda (Simon & Schuster; $16.99; 32 pages) Children with quirky grandparents can relate to this story, which follows three children and their Nana, who has her own special way of babysitting, complete with a “peeny butter fudge” treat. The book combines easy-to-read lyrics with eye-catching illustrations to create something so real that it will tug at your children’s heartstrings – and make them laugh. Plus, there’s also a recipe for the sweet concoction. ‘The Unfinished Angel’ [ages 8-12] By Sharon Creech (HarperCollins; $15.99; 164 pages) Sharon Creech, the Newbery Medal-winning author of “Walk Two Moons,” has written yet another unforgettable story. The amusing but touching book follows an angel who struggles with what its job entails, and Zola, a young girl with a lot of heart. The two become friends as they try to save a group of orphans, among other admirable feats. Read this aloud with your family, and watch as they discover the beauty Creech’s piece offers. Kristen Schott is OC Family's children's books editor.

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