Pastel colors, simple rhyming text and a layered, heart-shaped cutout to grasp decorate this board book populated by animals.
In turn, a baby giraffe, an elephant, a rabbit, a penguin, a dog, and a teddy bear speak directly to their mamas about day-to-day activities that human children should recognize—at least, one would hope that dancing, splashing, messy play, comforting kisses, snuggling with books, and being tucked in bed by a loving mama are every child’s right and reality. The critters look like stuffed animals—more decorative than real—so it is expected that they talk. Additional activities not mentioned in the verse are included in the illustrations. Finding the tiny mouse hidden on each page provides further opportunity for parent-child interaction. Ladybugs, a butterfly, a bird, a bee, and tiny hearts embellish each page. On the final spread the giraffe, elephant, bunny, dog, and penguin can be spotted in a picture on the teddy bear’s wall. Though the words sound more as though they are voiced by adults than children, the rhymes do flow smoothly.
Sturdy pages, sweet nursery illustrations, and that grab-able die cut make this an attractive way to remind both mother and child of all the ways they can enjoy gentle, loving togetherness.
(Board book. 6 mos.-3)