A Hilariously Unconventional Bedtime Story

Creating a picture book ranks among the most challenging tasks, comparable to quitting smoking or attempting a ski jump in terms of “things that seem simple but are actually quite difficult.”

Specifically, I’m referring to the art of making a quality picture book, as there are certainly more than enough mediocre examples out there. It always surprises me when I encounter those who dismiss authors like Julia Donaldson, claiming, “I could write that!” as if they possess the secret to achieving multimillionaire status but are merely opting out of it.

So, what is the secret ingredient that makes a picture book truly great? This year, while attending the Bologna Ragazzi awards—a prestigious international ceremony akin to the Olympics for picture books—I had the opportunity to observe the judges as they navigated through thousands of submissions to identify the top three. It was refreshing to witness children’s illustration being recognized as high art. However, I found myself yearning for a picture book infused with humor amidst a plethora of monochromatic tales centered around serious themes like dictatorship.

Enter Sleep Tight, Disgusting Blob, the perfect remedy. Written by Huw Aaron, a Welsh author, cartoonist, and graphic novelist, this charming rhyming tale turns the conventional bedtime story on its head, introducing a delightful dose of gentle irony suitable for even the youngest readers. After all, those spooky creatures that creep around at night also have their own little monsters who need their rest.

The story unfolds in the Blob household, where a parent Blob encourages their little Disgusting Blob to put away toys and prepare for bed.

“Here at the end of a well-spent day, a yawning Blob I see.

Reach out your weary tentacles and come upstairs with me …

For all creatures grim and evil, under the tired sun, are settling down — and so must you, my horrible little one.”

This sets the stage for a quirky overview of the bedtime routines of various baby monsters: “The Dark Lord in his tower is sleepy. The Yeti has turned off her light. The Unspeakable Horror is sucking its thumb. The Cyborg’s on charge for the night. The Phantom’s haunting is done for the day. The Minotaur’s laid down her head. The Demon’s had Calpol for his tickly cough. It’s time to go to bed.”

From Dracula brushing his teeth to Medusa managing her hairstyles, these monsters have never appeared more endearing.

“Closed is the Cyclops’ glowering eye. Steady the Brain’s gentle throb.

Settled and snoring the Beast of the Moor. Shush now, my horrible Blob.

Your duvet is soft and slimy. Your pillow is lovely and damp. Cuddle in close with a book (or three). We’ll read by the light of the lamp.”

This book is ideal for the disgusting blob in your life, making it the perfect addition to your bedtime routine.

Sleep Tight, Disgusting Blob (ages 3-7) by Huw Aaron (Puffin, £7.99, 32 pages).