How to Welcome a New Baby

December 1, 2021
The team behind How to Babysit a Grandpa (2012), How to Raise a Mom (2018), and other "How-to" titles surrounding domestic relationships turns to yet another family dynamic: the birth of a new baby. A brown-skinned mom, a White dad, and their biracial child (who could either be a boy or girl) first prepare for and then welcome a new baby (who could also be a boy or girl). A White grandmother and a brown-skinned grandfather devotedly assist. Reagan's upbeat, second-person narrative addresses young readers directly, conveying realistic expectations and advice for adapting to a newborn joining the clan. For example, the text offers tips on how to feel included in a shifting family paradigm: "If you need an extra hug, just ask." The real core of the story, however, is showing children their special role as an older sibling and giving them a sense of agency. For instance, Reagan assures readers that although friends and family will love to visit the new baby, "You're the expert." That means warning visitors that "the baby squeezes pinkies very tightly" and reminding them not to feed the infant party food. Caregivers with little ones will appreciate the verisimilitude of Wildish's cartoony digital illustrations, which show a messy but welcoming kitchen and disorderly but delightful playtime scenes. The illustrations also include fun details throughout, like the family cat and her new kittens, that complement the larger story arc. Background characters display some racial diversity. (This book was reviewed digitally.) A charming choice for transitioning families. (Picture book. 4-8)

COPYRIGHT(2021) Kirkus Reviews, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

April 29, 2022

PreS-Gr 2-In this latest addition to the "How To" series, readers are instructed on how to prepare for the arrival of a new baby brother or sister. Digital illustrations first depict a Black mother and white father along with their biracial child gathering the necessary supplies and readying the nursery with assistance from a grandma and grandpa. Soon, the baby has arrived! Reagan's second-person narration directly addresses readers, reinforcing the invaluable role they play as older sibling: reminding friends not to share party food, clearing guests out of the room in the event of a stinky diaper, washing tiny toes during bath time, and becoming a peek-a-boo expert, just to name a few important jobs. New baby books may be plentiful, but this title is a standout for providing a genuine and realistic portrayal of early days with a newborn, as well as the special role of the older sibling in welcoming the newcomer. Wildish's illustrations are jam-packed with clever and charming details, including the family cat who welcomes her own kittens, an all-too-familiar messy kitchen, and timeless scenes of play. VERDICT A congenial addition to most collections.-Olivia Gorecke

Copyright 2022 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.