Five Little Friends: A Collection of Finger Rhymes by Sean Taylor, illustrated by Fiona Woodcock (9781536242911)

Full of new fingerplays and finger rhymes, this picture book is a marvelous resource for families, teachers and librarians. The rhymes have a timeless quality to them that will make them seamlessly join in more traditional finger rhymes like “Itsy Bitsy Spider.” Taylor has created a collection that will be beloved and I’m hoping that some of his rhymes become universal on the storytime circuit. They have a bounce, a rhythm and a jolly sense of humor that small children will adore. 

Woodcock’s illustrations seamlessly incorporate the actions and move alongside the rhymes so that adults can quickly read the rhyme and gestures together. The colors are bright and friendly and feature a diverse cast of children acting out the rhymes on the page. The focus on learning through movement is joyful.

This one belongs in every library and would make a great gift for new parents. Appropriate for ages 0-4.

Reviewed from e-galley provided by Candlewick.