BEAR HAS A BELLY

Animals’ physical features compared side by side with children’s.

This picture book compiles photographs of familiar animals along with similarly adorable kids. The simple, repetitive text has a singsong-y feeling: “Owl has eyes— / Big, round eyes. / Owl has eyes. / I do too!” A close-up of the owl’s face is paired with an image of a bespectacled, tan-skinned child looking up from an easel at the camera. Other pages compare showcase body parts like ears, nose, legs, and, of course, the titular belly. The images are detailed—one stunning picture even depicts the tiny insects stuck to a frog’s tongue midlick. The kids portrayed are diverse in terms of race and ability. The repeated refrain of “I do too!” invites readers to pick up the rhythm and to reflect on their own body parts. The book closes with a note about the importance of movement and body positivity for a child’s growth and development along with a list of suggested activities to try together. The format, repetition, and neutral observations make this a refreshing title among body books for toddlers and preschoolers. (This book was reviewed digitally.)

A welcome message of appreciation for human (and animal!) bodies.