Lilting, poetic text is paired with luminously beautiful illustrations in this soothing bedtime book from author Warren Hanson and artist Jim LaMarche. As the narrative describes the eponymous sea of sleep, on which dreamers drift until morning, the accompanying artwork depicts a mama and baby otter navigating the deep blue waters at night...

I was not familiar with Warren Hanson before picking up The Sea of Sleep, which I sought out largely because I am an admirer of illustrator Jim LaMarche's work, and wanted to see more of it. From a visual perspective, this book is a joy, as the artist skillfully utilizes a palette of deep blue hues, adeptly plays with light, and depicts two utterly charming otter characters. The text was also appealing, with a cadence that was soothing and peaceful, poetic but not overly reliant on rhyme. Recommended to fellow fans of Jim LaMarche, and to picture-book readers looking for beautiful, soothing bedtime books. ( )

Illustrations are gorgeous. I love the ocean, I think it is almost as interesting to explore as space. Also this would be a good, calm independent read.

(easy picture book, poetic form) Mama and baby otter start their journey through the night to the next morn cradled in each other's arms floating in the sea. Along the way, they are comforted by the moon, dolphins, sea creatures, the beauty of the sea, and the imagined memories of those that had passed there before them. The first two pages of illustrations show the baby and mama otter playing and walking on the beach together. The third page show the baby and mama otter in the forefront and a human child and mother walking on the beach further down suggesting to me the similiarites in familial structure. The book seems to imply to me that we are all members in one big circle of life. The beautiful word imagery is dreamlike and magical and brings a sense of comfort to the young reader or the child being read to. The illustrations mirror the same dreamlike and mystical quality of the story. This would make a good bedtime book. ( )

It's illustrated by Jim LaMarche, so we know it's going to be beautiful and it is. Lyrical, exquisite writing paired with LaMarche's soft, glowing watercolors (yeah, I know they're made with acrylics and so on, but they look like watercolors to me). The perfect bedtime story - create a great family tradition with this lovely book. Borrowed from the library.

This picture book is so soothing to read. The sea is so many hues of blues. The sea ottoers have a great time swimming day and night. The people who come to visit blend in with the sea so comfy and warm. This is a great book to curl up with a cup of tea.