Abstract: A novelty pillow is disclosed, having a compact size and a U-shape for cradling the head and neck of a (child) user while sitting in repose in a high backed chair or seat. The novelty pillow comprises a casing stuffed with a fill material, and has an optional opening in the casing allowing the user to add or remove fill material in order to adjust the firmness of the pillow. The pillow's casing is constructed of two similarly sized fabric members. When filled, the novelty pillow has a substantially uniform cross section through most of the pillow's U-shape. The end of one leg of the U-shaped body has a “critter head” affixed to it. A “critter head” is a stylized plush construct evoking the head of an animal or “critter.” Optionally, the end ofthe other leg can have features evoking an appendage of the “critter.