• Age: 3 to 7
• Grade: p to 2
• Reading age: 3 to 7

There are lots of things Duncan likes about bedtime --- the stories, the pajamas, the bubblegum-flavored toothpaste ... The only thing he doesn't like is going to sleep. And he'll do anything he can to avoid it. Until one day, Duncan's mom has had enough of his stalling. “Try counting sheep,” she tells him. So, he does. At first, it's kind of fun. As he counts, each sheep appears, wearing its number like a race car, and leaps over the bed. But then comes Sheep #68, who hesitates. He needs a drink of water before he can jump. Then he has to go to the bathroom. Then he wants to put on running shoes. Will Sheep #68 ever do what he's supposed to?

Kerry Lyn Sparrow's hilarious picture book story offers a new take on a universal experience. Using delaying tactics to avoid going to sleep at bedtime is a common routine for young children, and they'll love the sly humor when Duncan's own tricks get turned on him by the (“sheepish”) sheep. In subtle colors with lots of telling details, Guillaume Perreault's illustrations bring Duncan's bedtime rituals and his unexpected sheep guests humorously to life. This book makes a fantastic, funny read-aloud, appealing to both children and adults.

Kerry Lyn Sparrow is an elementary school teacher. Sleep, Sheep! is her debut picture book. She lives on a farm near Ottawa, Ontario.

Kerry Sparrow's profile page

Guillaume Perreault is a graphic designer but now works mainly as a freelance illustrator and author. His techniques vary according to his projects, but balance, contrast and humor are present in all of his work. Guillaume lives in Gatineau, Quebec.

Guillaume Perreault's profile page

• Short-listed, Blue Spruce Award, Ontario Library Association
• Shining Willow Award, Saskatchewan Young Readers' Choice Awards
• Short-listed, Delaware Diamonds Award, Diamond State Reading Association
• Winner, Best Books for Kids and Teens, starred selection, Canadian Children's Book Centre
• Short-listed, Jean Throop Book Award, IODE Ontario

Kids and caregivers alike will get a kick out of this smart silliness.—Kirkus Reviews

... a pleasure to read and a great addition to a read-aloud collection.—CM Magazine

While there is no shortage of picture books about counting sheep, this one offers an opportunity for inner reflection and humour, while its soothing neutral palette is perfect for tired eyes.—Quill & Quire

... a funny story that will resonate with anyone who has been reluctant to go to sleep (or knows someone who has).—Resource Links