Quick Booktalk
A baby experiences many firsts: first lullaby, first rock with Grandma, first words, first steps, first birthday, and she gets to do it all again when her first sibling is born.
About the Illustrations
The brightly colored pictures combine abstract shapes and figures to portray the first few years of a little girl's life. The colors and positions of the people create a cheerful celebratory atmosphere that emphasizes the joy of growing up. The illustrator also makes wonderful use of light to show the contrast between day and night and indoors and outdoors.
Story Time Possibilities
In the public library, I'd probably skip this book at story time only because it's specific to the experience of welcoming a sibling and that's not something every child experiences. But in terms of the artwork and text, both are well-suited to read aloud to groups, and I will definitely be keeping this book for potential use at one of the story times I host at my home.
Reader's Advisory
A lot of books of this type over-emphasize the wistfulness of parents, and it was refreshing that this one stayed child-focused. I also appreciate that the introduction of a new sibling is presented as a happy, natural occasion, and not something to be feared or resisted. I know some kids need books to help them process feelings of jealousy, but I appreciate that there are books like this for kids who make smoother transitions. Books that would complement this one nicely include One Special Day by Lola M. Schaefer and There's Going to be a Baby by John Burningham and Helen Oxenbury.
Disclosure
I received a review copy of First Morning Sun from Beach Lane Books in exchange for an honest review.
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