March 1, 2023
A dad and a new baby quietly celebrate their first storytime. This calming metanarrative gets right to the point. "I'll put you in your softest pajamas," narrates the father. He admits to being a little nervous about sharing "this moment that only you and I will be part of" as they go through the little one's bedtime routine. Finally, it's storytime, and this book comes to life--literally. Carrying the baby, the father wanders--through his thoughts and a gentle moonlit forest. There is no conflict or distraction, just "the click of this lamp, / the sounds of our house, / the touch of our hands." This is a rare, matter-of-fact portrait of a father and child, with the father expressing some uncertainty but ultimately joyfully participating in tasks that have often been associated with mothers. The lack of action may lull some, but new caregivers will readily absorb the themes and appreciate the encouragement to create shared reading time with even the youngest children. Soothing blues and browns and ample use of negative space create a reassuring feel that fits in well with the book's message. Both the father and the baby are tan-skinned. (This book was reviewed digitally.) This one is mostly for the grown-ups, and that's a good thing. (Picture book. 0-2)
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June 1, 2023
PreS-K-A new father is nervous about reading a bedtime story to his child for the first time. However, as he prepares the child for bedtime and to read, the love he has for the newborn becomes expansive, and a glimpse of their future unfolds. Sedita has created a lovely story that is easy to follow and will inspire much empathy from listeners. The text is clear and simple, repeatedly emphasizing how this is the first book the father is reading and tallying emotions in a variety of ways, but always using simple vocabulary. Fox's illustrations are beautiful, helping to show readers the story the father is walking into, but also how he is feeling about his new child. VERDICT Sedita and Fox have created a wistful story reminiscent of many childhood favorites, but this time from a father's perspective and including his future hopes of closeness with his child.-Margaret Kennelly
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