HOW A BABY GROWS
by Nola Buck & illustrated by Pamela Paparone
Sing-song rhythms and simple verse make this entry in the Growing Tree series an ideal read-aloud for the very young. Focusing on the everyday experiences in a baby’s life, Buck (Oh, Cats!, 1997, etc.) explores all the wiggly, giggly, and lovable qualities of babies. The enumeration encompasses the physical, emotional, and social needs of infants: “These are the things that babies do: Cry, wet, sleep, coo.” Parents will relish the subtle humor in that opening sentence; Paparone’s cheerful illustrations help children identify objects in their environment. With cozy scenes situated on soft backgrounds featuring cherubic babies in all moods frolicking about, this book will be a favorite for lap-sharing. (Board book. 1-2)