Is there a stratagem for delaying bedtime unknown to children? Possibly not, but the small bear in Nancy Markham Alberts' captivating text wants to climb a tree, search for honey, and catch a fish— decidedly a different way to avoid going to bed! Kind, loving mother bear acquiesces, much to the young bear's surprise. Observant readers will know exactly why the young bear is allowed to stay up and live out their best hopes for putting off the inevitable.<p>Acclaimed for the beauty of this paintings of the animal world, John Butler's remarkable talent is enhanced by a translucent flocking technique that renders the lovely paintings wonderfully soft-to-the-touch. Like <i>Bless This Mouse</i> (Handprint), also illustrated by John Butler, this book is an exquisite tactile experience to share at bedtime.