"The Tinker Sleep" was born as a poem and remains so in this newly minted Book Eight of Kelly Anne Manuel's Essentials Series. In this story the Child is invited on a journey into space when the narrator is unable to sleep during the night. An interesting character known as the Tinker Sleep, is introduced towards the end of the book and has been created to personify slumber.
"The Tinker Sleep" offers a standing invitation to the Child. The Child will learn that if their sleep is interrupted just writing on paper can be helpful. They can use a journal, diary, notebook or pad as a temporary tool to find their way back to sleep. This is story for all times of day but really does fit in nicely with a sleep time routine.
The simple words take on new meaning as the illustrations pair perfectly with their presentation. The illustrations offer a view of a possible dream state. The dream state depicted includes rainbows, galaxies, planets and stars. There are hot air balloons, clouds, and stormy skies to capture and keep the Child's attention.
"The Tinker Sleep" addresses the important issue of a good night's sleep. The idea that paper and pencil can be helpful once awoken from sleep is a theme the author embraces. The Child will enjoy the rhythm of the words and playful ideas of outer space. The message that great ideas can be found in times of quiet is also supported by the story.
It is in Early Childhood that sleep patterns, night time rituals and habits are formed. "The Tinker Sleep" is a tool in a Caregiver's toolbox to assist with that healthy formation. The idea that we can learn to self sooth with a hobby such as writing is such an important message that the author embraces. The Child who reads this book will be rewarded with a fun adventure into not only a dream world but a literary one.
