Review Detail

Soundar has created an absolutely beautiful bedtime book that feels both universal and culturally specific in the best possible way. The gentle rhythm and soothing language make this perfect for winding down at the end of the day, and it's become a regular part of our bedtime routine.
What I love about this book is how it incorporates elements from a culture my family is not a part of while maintaining a sense of inclusivity. So even though we are not Hindu, the whole family can enjoy this sweet bedtime story. The lullaby-like quality of the text is enhanced by illustrations that feel warm and embracing. My children find the repetitive structure comforting, which is exactly what you want in a bedtime book.
From a child development perspective, this book supports healthy sleep routines and emotional regulation. The calm, measured pace helps signal to children that it's time to transition from active play to rest. We've found that reading this book actually helps my kids to settle down by being “so relaxed” in the words of my son.
The multicultural elements provide wonderful opportunities for discussions about different family traditions and bedtime customs around the world. It's helped us think about our own family's bedtime rituals and how they connect us to larger communities and traditions.
The illustrations are gorgeous - soft, dreamy, and perfectly suited to the peaceful tone of the text. The book feels like a warm hug, which is exactly what bedtime reading should provide. It's Time To Hush And Say Good Night is a perfect addition to any family’s nighttime routine!