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Module 1 Picture Books - GOOD NIGHT, KNIGHT by Betsy Lewin

Good Night, Knight by: Betsy Lewin

*This review was written for a master’s course through Sam Houston State University. 

1. BIBLIOGRAPHY 

Lewin, Betsy. (2015). Good Night, Knight. Holiday House. ISBN 9780823433155 


2. PLOT SUMMARY 

Good Night, Knight is written by Betsy Lewin, a story of a brave but sleepy knight and his horse on a “quest” to find the golden cookies he dreamt about.  The story chronicles their journey to look through a hole, bush, and water, only to become so sleepy, they begin the trek home. Knight remembers the treat of golden cookies in a jar in the kitchen. Once they eat their fill, they wish each other goodnight, only for the horse to have a dream about golden apples. The story closes as the pair begin their next adventure. 


3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS 

Lewin’s humorous story focuses on two characters who are described in the third person and are meant for emerging readers. The text is repetitive and simple; this allows young readers to read on their own and predict text along with the illustrations which offer context for the words. The text itself is clear and easy to read. In addition to the funny storyline, Lewin uses figurative language such as onomatopoeia to add humor and engagement for readers. She also chooses to focus on difficult phonics sounds and lend additional support to early literacy. 


Lewin writes and illustrates the story. The book begins with an illustration of the knight on his horse from behind as they head to the castle. The characters appear to be sketches that are done in simple watercolor with minimal scenery on a white background or negative space. Lewin uses the knight’s armor to indicate emotion through physicality; the horse’s face indicates emotion through his face. The drawings also help convey the humor of the story such as when the knight is sleeping with his bottom in the air. The layout of the illustrations helps guide the reader's attention down and across the page. While the illustrations are integral to helping the reader decode the story, they are minimal and keep from distracting the reader. 


My oldest son is in first grade and learning to read with a two-year delay due to being deaf and having cochlear implants at the age of two; my second son is 3 years old. Reading is a daily activity in our house, and this is a favorite story that we utilize to discuss the importance of rest and routine. The theme and style lend themselves to topics and studies we face with my older son in learning how to read. 


4. REVIEW EXCERPT(S) 

Booklist (June 1, 2015 (Vol. 111, No. 19)): “The simple, often repeating text is well placed on the page, allowing beginning readers to easily predict unfamiliar words from the context and the art.” 

Horn Book Guide (Fall 2015): “The use of repetitive phrases and homophones are geared toward new readers; plot is clearly secondary to the reading goals.” 

Kirkus Reviews starred (March 1, 2015): “Clear text, amusing illustrations, and a captivating easy-to-read story make this a winner for horse-loving emerging readers.” 

School Library Journal (March 1, 2015): “Lewin’s...word choices include the difficult “KN” and “CL” phonic sounds, and there’s a great repetition of words and concepts that will help reinforce what’s learned.” 


5. CONNECTIONS 

  • Related Books – Repetitive books, books that discuss the importance of bedtime routine 

  • Cronin, Doreen. CLICK, CLACK, MOO: COWS THAT TYPE. ISBN 1518182674 

  • Yolen, Jane. HOW DO DINOSAURS SAY GOODNIGHT?. ISBN 0590316818 

  • Enrichment Activities -  

  • Use materials to create knight armor to foster creativity and role-playing 

  • Discuss dreams and aspirations; ask why they would go on a “quest” 

  • Have children make a personal connection by talking about searching for something that is important. 

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