[2] This single yawn sets off a chain reaction, effectively putting "ninety-nine zillion nine trillion and two" creatures to sleep.

The narrator then takes us around the world to various locations where people are going to sleep, such as Herk-Heimer Falls, the Castle of Krupp, and the towns of Culppeper Springs and Mercedd.

The narrator then explores the latest news in the sports of sleeptalking and sleepwalking before returning to the previous standard of discussing various locations (such as the Zwieback Motel and the District of Dofft) and creatures such as the Foona Lagoona Baboona and a Jedd.

[9] This children's book is said to be a top choice for parents to read to their kids at night due to its soothing rhythm and "timeless story".

[11] One article praised Dr. Seuss's ability to write to the younger audience "without condescension" and reasoned this factor to be his backing for such great success.

In another draft, the book included a stanza which reads: A report just came in from the Island of Krox That a Snidd has taken off both of his socks And has hung them with care on the edge of his chair