The Dark, Dark Night

Frog is ready to settle down for the night. He is just about to jump in the water when he spies a pond monster coming out of the dark reeds. Frog and his friends search for the pond monster two more times. Each time, the monster is bigger and scarier than the last. In the end, Frog and friends are all amused when mouse accidentally reveals the mystery of the pond monster. M. Christina Butler and Jane Chapman make being in the dark almost seem like fun. This story, along with playing in the dark with light and shadows, is a surefire way to help take the pressure off a child who fears the dark. Butterfly Kisses for Grandma and Grandpa

I bought this book as a replacement for my grandsons (3 1/2 and 2). The 2 year old liked it so much that he would bring pages to his mother. They absolutely are in love with this book. They both will sit quietly on my lap as I read and the 2 year old has a new favorite word "MONSTERS". He tells me they are everywhere. It is truely a beautiful story and book.

Frog is ecstatic that it's spring and he can return to his pond.Along the way back he meets up and visits with his various friends.When frog finally arrives at the pond it's dark and he needs a lantern.When he puts down the lantern and looks at the pond, he is frightened away by what he believes is a pond monster.He hightails it back to his friends and one by one they return with him to the pond to show him there is no such thing.Upon each arrival they are repeatedly frightened by a larger and scarier pond monster,until they discover in the end that it was their shadows all along.Very enjoyable story,nice little bit of suspense,beautifully illustrated,with a funny ending.

We are in love with Jane Chapman's artistry. We have about every book she has illustrated and I'm sure we'll continue to. This story was a great little one at that. My children have enjoyed this very much.