Not Now, Bernard

Reach for this book when you feel like life is moving too fast and you need a gentle, humorous reality check about the importance of being present. This classic picture book tells the story of Bernard, a young boy who tries to warn his distracted parents about a monster in the garden, only to be told Not now, Bernard. When the monster eventually eats Bernard and takes his place in the house, the parents remain hilariously and tragically oblivious. It is a brilliant exploration of loneliness and the need for attention, wrapped in a mantle of absurdist humor. While it serves as a cautionary tale for adults, children find deep validation in seeing their own frustrations reflected on the page. It is best suited for children aged 3 to 7 who are beginning to navigate their independence and their place within the family dynamic.