Babies, babies, babies

School Library Journal

PreS-K-- An expectant mother explains the differences and similarities between animal and human babies to her inquisitive children. On the left side of each double-page spread are illustrations of the family's daily activities as the children ask questions such as, ``Do all baby animals grow in their mother's tummies?'' On the right are pictures of animals that support the mother's answer (dogs and cats do, but frogs, fish, and birds do not). The book strives to show the universal behaviors shared by all families. Unfortunately, the writing and illustrations force the issue, as when the children dress in a bee and a bear costume and the mother says, ``Goodnight, my little animals.'' The bright cartoons adequately illustrate the story, and children may find some tidbits of information interesting. However, the writing and art are so mediocre that this should be considered for purchase only if there's a crying need for books on the subject.-- Cathleen Towey, Nassau Library System, Uniondale, NY