Good Night, Bat! Good Morning, Squirrel!

Reviewed by: Anne Donovan - Long Island Community Library, Long Island, Southern Maine Library District

Review Date: May 9, 2017

Review

This story of an unlikely friendship begins with Bat in need of a new home. When old bat turns him down (too full of bats already), fox says yes (but I might eat you), skunk says no (ironically, bats are too stinky for him) Bat continues to search until he spots a perfect place! The cozy nest of leaves and sticks even has a twig for him to hang from at bedtime. He does not notice Squirrel, sleeping in his bed of leaves, already lives there. When Squirrel awakes to find a bat hanging in his home he is none too pleased and as he heads out for his day leaves a polite note requesting Bat vacant the premises. Due to a series of misunderstandings, as well as their separate sleep patterns (Bat being nocturnal) this goes on for several days until Squirrel does realize he enjoys Bat's company after all and welcomes Bat to stay. This humorous story touches on themes of courtesy, sharing, and friendship that young children will enjoy. Meisel's illustrations, done in charcoal and crayon, are warm and enticing.

Overall Book Score: very good