Mitchell’s License

Hallie Durand (2011), 40 pages

Illustrated by Tony Fucile

Audience: toddlers, pre-K

Format: picture book

Bedtime doesn’t have to involve tantrums, tears, or whimpers … In fact, bedtime can be fun. Well, get ready to steer your not-ready-for-bedtime kids into bed in a very creative way …Meet Mitchell.

At three years, nine months, and five days old Mitchell got his license. To drive … his dad. That’s right Mitchell’s first car isn’t a 1968 Mustang or 1995 Volkswagen ... it was his father. Although young, Mitchell is a thorough and safe driver. He maintains his vehicle; before driving he inspects the tires (dad’s feet), the engine (dad’s tummy), and always makes sure the windshield (dad’s glasses) isn’t dirty before taking the driver’s seat (dad’s shoulders). Mitchell steers flawlessly (almost!) driving fast, slow, in reverse, even coasting into neutral. He can turn right, turn left, etc. Soon after a few nights of maneuvering speed bumps (toys in the hallway) and traffic jams Mitchell starts to handle his new car like a seasoned pro. Now, Mitchell loves his new commute! Mitchell’s License truly puts bedtime into 4-wheel drive and will get your kids excited about going to bed!

Read along further as Mitchell takes detours, tops off the oil, and visits the gas station … But of course, parents don’t worry Mitchell’s car still has a mind of its own and can make a u-turn beelining for Mitchell’s room if need be. Durand and Fucile are great storytellers and resourceful to the end, resulting in a book, which is both fun and funny to read!

This book takes play-pretend and reading to a whole new level making bedtime a wonderful bonding experience between father and son. Let’s face it, the years fly bye … before you know it your little one will be behind the wheel … until then, let them practice on you!

Reviewed by: Katharine Conn, MLIS

If you liked this book, you may like: Sputter, Sputter, Sput! by Babs Bell, Driving Daddy by Hope Vestergaard, or Night Driving by John Coy

Other books by this author: Dessert First!

Other books by this illustrator: Let’s Do Nothing!

Ten, Nine, Eight

Molly Bang (1983), 24 pages

Audience: babies, toddlers

Format: picture book

Need a calming countdown to nighttime? Well, look no further! Bang's Caldecott honored book Ten, Nine, Eight is the answer. Follow a loving daughter and father in their cozy nighttime routine as they get ready for a good night’s sleep ... “ten … small toes all washed and warm; nine … soft friends in a quiet room; eight … square windowpanes with falling snow.” Molly Bang has created a classic bedtime book and a family favorite. Add this story to your nightly repertoire as you prepare your little one for bedtime; also available in Spanish.

Reviewed by: Katharine Quinn, SJSU MLIS Student

If you liked this book, you may like: Feast for 10 by Cathryn Falwell, Goodnight Moon by Margaret Wise Brown, or Counting Kisses by Karen Katz

Other books by this author: When Sophie Gets Angry—Really, Really Angry (Caldecott Honor Book), The Grey Lady and the Strawberry Snatcher (Caldecott Honor Book), and All of me!