Barnaby Bear was snug in his fluffy pyjamas. He had brushed his teeth till they sparkled like tiny stars and was tucked into his soft bed. His bedroom was dim, with just the soft glow of his moon night-light making friendly shadows dance on the wall. But something was missing! The very best part of Barnaby’s day hadn't happened yet. He bounced a little under his duvet, waiting with happy anticipation.
Soon, a gentle knock came at his door. "Ready for story time, Barnaby?" whispered Mama Bear, peeking in with a warm smile. Barnaby nodded eagerly. "Oh yes, Mama! I've been waiting!" Story time with Mama was Barnaby's absolute favourite thing in the whole wide world.
Mama Bear came in and sat on the edge of his bed. She had a small stack of books in her paws. "Which adventure shall we go on tonight?" she asked softly. Barnaby looked at the colourful spines. There was the one about the brave little squirrel, the one about the wobbly star, and the one about the train that puffed rainbow smoke.
Tonight, Barnaby chose the brave little squirrel. He snuggled down even further under his covers as Mama opened the book. Her voice was like warm honey, smooth and comforting. As she read, Barnaby imagined the little squirrel climbing the tallest tree, his bushy tail twitching bravely in the pretend wind.
He pictured the shiny nuts the squirrel was looking for and the friendly bluebird that helped him. Mama’s voice changed a little for each character, making Barnaby giggle softly into his pillow. The pictures in the book seemed to come alive in his mind, bigger and brighter than on the page.
The story told of challenges and kindness, of working hard and finding friends. Barnaby felt safe and happy listening to the gentle rhythm of Mama Bear’s voice and the turning of the pages. The worries of the day floated away like little clouds, replaced by brave squirrels and friendly bluebirds.
When Mama read the last word and closed the book with a soft thump, Barnaby let out a sleepy sigh. "That was a wonderful story, Mama," he mumbled, feeling his eyelids grow heavy. Mama Bear leaned down and gave him a big, warm hug and a kiss on his forehead. "Sleep well, my little bear," she whispered.
Barnaby snuggled deeper into his bed, the brave little squirrel still dancing in his mind. The comfort of the story, the warmth of Mama's hug, and the quiet of his room wrapped around him like a cozy blanket. Soon, Barnaby Bear was fast asleep, dreaming sweet dreams of adventures he had read about, all thanks to his favourite time of day: his bedtime story read.