On these cold winter nights there is nothing nicer than snuggling up under the covers for a cosy, long storytime. Here we highlight some classics and contemporary titles that are gentle, soothing and perfect for a longer than normal bedtime reading routine. All of these titles are suitable for children aged four and up who can be still for a longer storytime, but there are still plenty of pictures for them to enjoy as you read.

The Complete Brambly Hedge by Jill Barklem

The mice have many adventures, but they always have time for fun and relaxation too. Whatever the season, and whether they are by the sea, in the High Hills, or simply at home by the fire, there is always someone ready to lend a helping hand.

First published in 1980, our recent Classic of the Month reviewer, Rosalind, says of this book: ‘I read this aloud near nightly, by request, to my five-year-old who loves the soothing world of Brambly Hedge as much as me.’

Big Hedgehog and Little Hedgehog Take an Evening Stroll by Britta Teckentrup

It is evening and the big and little hedgehog are slowly making their way home. There is so much to see, and the little one wants to take it all in. Each step of the way the big hedgehog patiently asks, ‘What are we waiting for now?’

The little hedgehog’s answers unfold in a series of lush landscapes as the two animals wait for the sun to set, for birds to fly by, for the moon and stars to appear, and for the world around them to prepare for sleep. At last, the little hedgehog is also asleep, carried home in the big hedgehog’s arms.

Moominland Midwinter by Tove Jansson

In the middle of our own winter, what could be better than reading about the Moomins, whose winter is much colder and snowier than ours could ever be?

Moomins always sleep through the winter while the snow settles all around them, waking up in time for spring and the arrival of Snufkin and other friends. Or they did until one year when Moomintroll happened to wake up and find himself all alone in a sleepy, dusty house in a silent, snow-covered valley.

The Little Wooden Robot and the Log Princess by Tom Gauld

When the log princess goes missing, her brother, the little wooden robot, sets out on an epic adventure to find her. He will encounter goblins, magic puddings, a mushroom queen and a very intimidating wood pile as he seeks to bring his sister home.

This is an exquisitely illustrated modern fairytale written in graphic panels about sibling love. Tom Gauld brings all of his wit, drawing skills and narrative craft to a funny, moving tale that proves that woodlice can be heroes too.

Tashi: 25th anniversary edition by Anna & Barbara Feinberg and Kim Gamble

Exciting stories that are always handled with the utmost gentleness, Tashi has been enjoyed by young children for over twenty-five years.

Tashi is always telling fabulous stories. He escaped from a war lord in a faraway place and flew to this country on the back of a swan. And he wished he would find a friend just like Jack. In this first book of his daring adventures, Tashi tells Jack about the time he tricked the last dragon of all.

Britannica’s Five Minute Really True Stories for Bedtime

For the non-fiction inclined child, you can’t go past this collection of true stories about the world.

You will travel to Ancient Egypt to explore the five beds of Tutankhamun, jet off into space to see how astronauts get ready for bed, and plunge underwater to learn how hibernating turtles breathe through their bottoms.

With up-to-the-minute, expert information and stunning illustrations, this book is the ultimate brainy bedtime companion for young children.