babies

All of Baby Nose to Toes

| Tasha

All of Baby, Nose to Toes by Victoria Adler, illustrated by Hiroe Nakata

This delightful little picture book combines charming art work with an engaging rhyme.  From eyes to toes, this book moves from one body part to the next, stopping for giggles at the tummy.  Each body part is given its own little rhyme that moves to a chorus of “Who loves baby’s ears?  Me! I do.” 

Adler has a knack for simple rhymes, a bouncy rhythm and sweetness that is not saccharine.  Nakata’s watercolor and gouache artwork is also sweet.  It features a rosy-cheeked baby with just the right amount of plumpness who goes through life with great glee. 

Perfect for babies and toddlers, this book’s rhyme and art will have everyone enjoying it.  Expect to read it time and again once the bouncy rhythm is in your ears and toes.

Before You Were Here, Mi Amor

| Tasha

Before You Were Here, Mi Amor by Samantha R. Vamos, illustrated by Santiago Cohen.

A familia is expecting a baby and there is lots of excitement and preparation.  Mami is eating healthy foods.  Papi is building a rocking chair. Everyone helps pick out a name.  A tree is planted.  The walls of the nursery are painted.  A mobile is built.  And the older siblings offer their books and stuffed animals.  The book shines with love and anticipation, from the words on the page that offer a wonderful mixture of Spanish and English to the illustrations bright with color.  This book truly captures the wonder of a new baby for an entire extended family.

Vamos’ text effortlessly blends Spanish words with English, creating a mix that reads naturally.  Unlike some books where the Spanish can feel extraneous to the story, here it is an innate part of the book.  Cohen’s illustrations are bold and bright.  They exude a warmth and joy that is a perfect match for the subject and the text.

Highly recommended for all families, this book is appropriate for ages 3-6.