Oh, Are You Awake?

Bob Shea and Jarvis team up for a delightful picture book that perfectly encapsulates the bedtime struggle many families face. Lion is wide awake and eager for stories, drumming, and bouncing, while his friend Penguin is utterly exhausted and just wants to sleep. The entire narrative unfolds through their witty, often exasperated, dialogue, showcasing Penguin's increasing frustration and Lion's innocent, boundless energy. It's a humorous and relatable portrayal of differing energy levels at bedtime, ultimately finding a sweet resolution that highlights friendship and understanding. Ideal for ages 4-8, it's a fantastic read-aloud that will resonate with both children and their caregivers.

For anyone who has ever craved sleep—and anyone too full of energy to settle down—a comedy from Bob Shea, creator of the popular Dinosaur vs. series, and singular illustrator Jarvis. It’s sleepy time for Lion and Penguin. Correction: it should be sleepy time for Lion and Penguin, but Lion’s eyes aren’t tired, and his ears would like a story. Penguin, however, is tired and nods off into sweet candy dreams—until a noise wakes him. “Oh, are you awake?” asks Lion sweetly, seated before a drum set. “Let’s have that story, then!” “Not now. It is time to close your eyes and dream dreams.” And so it goes, with an ever-more-disgruntled Penguin trying to nod off while an exuberant Lion innocently practices his drumming, bounces on his squeaky trampoline, and munches on his crunchy chips. Will Penguin need to resort to extreme measures to get his friend to sleep, or has the answer been there all along? Bob Shea’s signature wit, delivered only in dialogue, and Jarvis’s unassuming, retro art and knack for visual humor are sure to delight young readers—and their caregivers—whether at naptime, bedtime, or anytime.