The Good Little Mermaid’s Guide to Bedtime
illustrated by Nici Gregory, published by Tundra Books
This little mermaid is too FIERCE and SCARY and FEROCIOUS to follow The Good Little Mermaid’s Guide to Bedtime . . . well, except the part about snuggling her shark stuffie. A hilarious picture book for kids ages 3 to 7 who are experts at resisting sleep.
Selected as a 2024 Blue Ribbon title from the Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books.
Selected by Betsy Bird for her 2024 31 days, 31 lists: Best Picture Book Read Alouds and Best Funny Picture Books.
“A fierce young mermaid rebels against prim behavioral advice in Sumner’s ornery metafictional title . . . It’s a story for the bedtime-avoidant whose curmudgeonly antihero truly shines[.]” —Publishers Weekly
“A must for mermaid fans, sweet or sassy, and a great bedtime read.” —Kirkus Reviews
“This book is utterly original, delightfully dark, and as twisted as a branch of undersea coral. Good night, little mermaid. Sweet nightmares.” —Booklist
“What is there for the girl unimpressed by the glittering, precious creatures populating many Disney movies and much of kid lit? The one who bristles at tiaras . . . who chafes at any effort toward conformity? [The Good Little Mermaid’s Guide to Bedtime] offers a heroine meant just for that girl, a little mermaid with razor-sharp teeth, predatory instincts, and zero interest in being good, sweet, or, most importantly, following [an] evening routine. . . . A contrarian delight.” —The Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books
Crocodile Hungry
illustrated by John Martz, published by Tundra Books
A hilarious story about a hungry and hapless crocodile, for fans of How to Give Your Cat a Bath and I Want My Hat Back.
One of the Canadian Children’s Book Center’s (CCBC) Best Books for Kids & Teens (Fall 2022), Starred Selection.
Selected title to participate in the Dolly Parton Imagination Library distributed in Canada, October 2023.
“Giggles guaranteed in this hilarious easy reader; a nice piece of overturned expectations, sure to delight.” —School Library Journal
“With its tongue-in-cheek humour, short action statements, and bright illustrations, this book is sure to appeal to children of all ages. . . a quick but satisfying read with a conclusion that most Canadians will appreciate.” —CM: Canadian Review of Materials
“A surprisingly endearing character, with a wry text and expressive pictures that appeal to both children and adults.” —Imaginary Elevators
“The crocodile’s expressive face and the many funny details presented will lead to stops and discussion, and wishes for a repeat reading. Just what you want when you read to little ones.” —Sal’s Fiction Addiction
“This is a delightfully fun story, with kid-friendly illustrations and lots of repetition to keep kids engaged.” —Story Monsters Ink
Frequently Asked Questions
How did you find a publisher?
These books were published by an established publishing company. My agent submitted a story to my editor, and the editor [very simplified] decided to acquire and publish the book.
How did you find an illustrator?
Both illustrators were recommended to me by my editor. The editor works with art directors and their publishing team to find incredibly talented illustrators whose work and style will compliment a story.
Do you talk to the illustrator during the book making process?
Nope! As an author, I complete my edits and then the illustrator will bring their own sense of storytelling and creativity to bring the story to life and add so much more. Seeing a story grow and come to life through illustrations feels like magic!
Are signed copies available?
Signed copies of my books are available by ordering through my local indie bookstore, BookPeople of Moscow. When you order, please put in the comments that you’d like the author to sign a copy along with any other specific instructions.