Review: Dozy Bear and the Secret of Sleep

The theme of Dozy Bear and the Secret of Sleep is one that will be familiar to many people. It’s dedicated to “tired parents, grandparents and children everywhere.” Author Katie Blackburn was inspired to write the story to help get her child (and yours!) to sleep “as quickly as possible …. with the least trauma and tears.”

Dozy Bear doesn’t know how to get to sleep. All the other animals - monkeys, hippos, giraffes, zebras, elephants and birds - seem to fall asleep quickly and easily, but poor Dozy just can’t work it out.

Mummy Bear and Papa Bear tell Dozy there’s no secret to sleeping, and each give him advice to help him fall asleep. So does Nana Bear and then Granpy Bear. Eventually, with the sounds of night all around him, Dozy’s eyes get heavier. His breathing changes and he eventually slips off to sleep.

Children will be able to recognise the animals and connect with actions like snuggling down in bed and taking long deep breaths.

Dozy Bear and the Secret of Sleep incorporates “tried-and-tested relaxation techniques” into the text, and the illustrations use a colour palette that is likely to be soothing.

Dozy Bear and the Secret of Sleep is a gentle story, perfect for bedtime.

Title: Dozy Bear and the Secret of Sleep
Author: Katie Blackburn
Illustrator: Richard Smith
Publisher: Faber, $14.99 RRP
Publication Date: April 2016
Format: Paperback
ISBN: 9780571330195
For ages: 2-5
Type: Picture book